Endoscopic device

ABSTRACT

This application provides an endoscopic device having at least one shaft with at least one portion deflectable, and having at least one deflection mechanism, which is configured to deflect the deflectable portion and includes at least one first connection member and at least one second connection member. When the connection members are arranged in a straight position relative to each other, a straight-position spacing exists defined by a shortest connection between a geometric midpoint of the first connection member and a geometric midpoint of the second connection member and, when the connection members are arranged in a deflection position relative to each other, a deflection-position spacing exists which is defined by a shortest connection between a geometric midpoint of the first connection member and a geometric midpoint of the second connection member, and the deflection-position spacing in the deflection position is greater than the straight-position spacing in the straight position.

PRIOR ART

The invention relates to an endoscopic device according to the preamble of claim 1, to an endoscope and/or endoscopic instrument having an endoscopic device, according to claim 11, to a surgical system having an endoscopic device, according to claim 12, and to a method for operating and/or producing an endoscopic device, according to claim 13.

An endoscopic device has already been proposed having at least one shaft, which has at least one portion deflectable in at least one plane, and having at least one deflection mechanism, which is configured to deflect the deflectable portion and comprises, arranged in series, at least one first connection member and at least one second connection member interacting for a deflection with the first connection member.

The object of the invention is in particular to make available a device of this kind which has improved properties in terms of its functionality According to the invention, the object is achieved by the features of claims 1, 11, 12 and 13, while advantageous embodiments and developments of the invention are set forth in the dependent claims.

Advantages of the Invention

The invention proceeds from an endoscopic device having at least one shaft, which has at least one portion deflectable in at least one plane, and having at least one deflection mechanism, which is configured to deflect the deflectable portion and comprises, arranged in series, at least one first connection member and at least one second connection member interacting for a deflection with the first connection member.

In one aspect of the invention, which can be considered in particular in combination with further aspects of the invention, it is proposed that, when the first connection member and the second connection member are arranged in a straight position relative to each other, a straight-position spacing exists which is defined by a shortest connection between a geometric midpoint of the first connection member and a geometric midpoint of the second connection member, and, when the first connection member and the second connection member are arranged in a deflection position relative to each other, a deflection-position spacing exists which is defined by a shortest connection between a geometric midpoint of the first connection member and a geometric midpoint of the second connection member, and the deflection-position spacing of the connection members in the deflection position is greater than the straight-position spacing of the connection members in the straight position.

In this way, a functionality of the endoscopic device can advantageously be improved. It is advantageously possible to avoid a situation where connection members of the deflection mechanism are arranged randomly in relation to each other upon a return of the deflectable portion from a basic deflection position. Instead, it is possible to achieve an automatic return of the connection members to their basic position in the manner of a self-alignment. It is thus advantageously possible to avoid a situation where connection members arranged randomly in relation to each other impede a function of the endoscopic device and/or cause injury to a patient, for example if the endoscopic device has to be inserted into a patient and/or extracted from the latter in an emergency.

An “endoscopic device” should be understood in particular to mean a constituent part, preferably a functional constituent part, in particular a subassembly and/or a structural component and/or functional component of an endoscopic instrument and/or of an endoscope. Alternatively, the endoscopic device can at least partly, preferably at least largely and particularly preferably completely embody an endoscope and/or an endoscopic instrument. “Endoscopically” should be understood in particular as also meaning minimally invasive. The expression “at least largely” should be understood to mean in particular at least 55%, preferably at least 65%, preferably at least 75%, particularly preferably at least 85%, and very particularly preferably at least 95%, or advantageously completely, to be precise in relation to a volume and/or mass of an object, in particular. The endoscopic device is, for example, configured to be introduced, at least partly and preferably at least largely, into an orifice, in particular an artificial and/or natural orifice, in particular a body orifice, in order to perform a treatment and/or observation there. An endoscopic instrument can, for example, be in the form of endoscopic forceps, endoscopic scissors, an endoscopic scalpel, an endoscopic stapler or the like. It is conceivable that the endoscopic device is configured to provide at least one, two or more electrical potentials, for example in order for tissue to be cut, sealed, coagulated and/or the like. In particular, “configured” should be understood to mean specifically programmed, provided, designed and/or equipped. An object being configured for a specific function should be understood to mean in particular that the object satisfies and/or carries out this specific function in at least one application state and/or operational state. If the endoscopic device has for example at least one shaft, the latter is configured to be introduced, at least partly and preferably at least largely, into an orifice, in particular an artificial and/or natural orifice, in particular a body orifice. The shaft comprises for example at least one end portion and/or further end portion, wherein for example the end portion is a distal end portion and/or the further end portion is a proximal end portion. “Distal” should be understood in particular to mean facing a patient and/or distant from a user during operation. “Proximal” should be understood in particular to mean distant from a patient and/or facing a user during operation. The shaft has for example an axis of principal extent. An axis of principal extent of an object should be understood as an axis which runs through the geometric midpoint and/or center of gravity of the object and is at least substantially parallel to a direction of principal extent of the object. Here, a “direction of principal extent” of an object should be understood in particular to mean a direction that extends parallel to a longest edge of a smallest imagined cuboid that just still completely surrounds the object. A longitudinal extent for example of the shaft is identical to the direction of principal extent of the latter. Here, “at least substantially parallel” should be understood in particular as an orientation of a direction relative to a reference direction, in particular in a plane, wherein the direction and the reference direction enclose an angle of 0° in particular in consideration of a maximum deviation of less than 8°, advantageously of less than 5° and particularly advantageously of less than 2°. A width can be measured at least substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal extent. Here, “at least substantially perpendicular” should be understood in particular as an orientation of a direction relative to a reference direction, in particular in a plane, wherein the direction and the reference direction enclose an angle of 90°, in particular in consideration of a maximum deviation of less than 8°, advantageously of less than 5° and particularly advantageously of less than 2°. The endoscopic device can have a plurality of components that can be at least substantially identical to one another. “At least substantially identical” should be understood to mean either identical or identical apart from assembly and/or production tolerances. The endoscopic device can be designed integrally at least in part. The fact that “an object and a further object have an at least partly integral embodiment/connection” should be understood to mean in particular that at least one element and/or part of the object and at least one element and/or part of the further object have an integral embodiment/connection. In particular, “integral” should be understood to mean at least cohesively bonded, for example by a welding process, an adhesive bonding process, a spraying process and/or any other process appearing expedient to a person skilled in the art. “Integral” should be understood in particular as meaning formed in one piece, for example by production from one cast and/or by production in a single-component or multiple-component injection method and, advantageously, from a single blank. Components of the endoscopic device should be connected to one another at least partially by form-fit and/or force-fit engagement. Here, “force-fit and/or form-fit engagement” should be understood in particular as meaning connected, preferably releasably connected, wherein a holding force is transmitted between two objects preferably by geometric interlocking of the structural components in one another and/or by a frictional force that preferably acts between the objects. Alternatively or in addition, components of the endoscopic device can be connected to one another by cohesive bonding. “Cohesive bonding” should be understood in particular as meaning that the objects are held together by atomic or molecular forces, for example by soldering, welding, adhesion and/or vulcanization. Moreover, the endoscopic device can be part of a surgical system. A surgical system should be understood in particular as a system configured for performing a surgical procedure, for example an endoscopic and/or minimally invasive procedure, which system comprises at least one surgical robot. The surgical robot can comprise at least one surgical robot arm or a plurality of surgical robot arms. The endoscopic device can be controllable and/or actuatable by the surgical robot, in particular the surgical robot arm. The endoscopic device can be able to be coupled releasably to the surgical robot, for example in order to permit exchange and/or cleaning of the endoscopic device. Moreover, the surgical system can comprise at least one controller, which is configured for manual and/or automated control of the surgical robot.

The shaft can have a deflectable portion. For the deflection of the shaft, the endoscopic device can have at least one deflection mechanism. The deflection mechanism is designed in particular for a mechanical deflection of the deflectable portion of the shaft. The shaft is deflectable in particular in at least one further plane, which is different from the at least one plane. For example, the further plane can be perpendicular to the plane. It is moreover conceivable that the shaft is deflectable along its circumference in any desired planes.

In particular, the deflection mechanism can comprise at least one and preferably several first connection members, which for example can be designed at least substantially identical to one another. In particular, the deflection mechanism can comprise at least two and preferably several second connection members, which for example can be designed at least substantially identical to one another. The first connection members and the second connection members can be arranged alternating in series. Except at edge regions of the deflection mechanism, a connection member can be adjoined by two second connection members, or vice versa. It is moreover conceivable that at least one second connection member defines an edge region of the deflection mechanism, or two second connection members define opposite edge regions of the deflection mechanism. Here, a second connection member can be designed and/or connected at least partially integrally with an end portion of the shaft and/or the end-effector head. A first connection member is engaged, in particular from two opposite sides, by a respective second connection member. Moreover, two first connection members engage from two opposite sides in a second connection member, respectively. The first connection member and the second connection member can be connected to each other in the manner of a ball joint. In particular, the first connection member has at least one joint head, and the second connection member has at least one joint socket, which together interact in the manner of a ball joint.

The first connection member is designed as a rotation body. The first connection member has a first axis of rotational symmetry. The first connection member has in particular an olive-like shape. The second connection member is designed as a rotation body. The second connection member has a second axis of rotational symmetry. The second connection member has in particular a disk-like shape. A “straight-position spacing” should be understood in particular as a position of at least the first connection member and the second connection member, in particular of all the first and second connection members, in which the first axis of rotational symmetry and the second axis of rotational symmetry, in particular all the axes of rotational symmetry of the connection members, are oriented at least substantially parallel to one another or are even identical to one another. A “deflection position” should be understood in particular as a position of at least the first connection member and of the second connection member, in particular of all the first and second connection members, in which the first axis of rotational symmetry and the second axis of rotational symmetry, in particular all the axes of rotational symmetry of the connection members, are arranged at an angle to one another and are preferably offset relative to one another by the same angle. Being arranged “at an angle” should be understood in particular as different than being arranged at least substantially parallel.

The end effector and the actuation train can additionally be coupled electrically to each other, for example in order to transmit at least one electrical potential from the actuation train to the end effector, in particular a tool piece of the end effector. The actuation train has in particular at least one inner cable, which is preferably designed to be flexible. In particular, the inner cable can be designed to be flexible over an entire extent of the actuation train. It is conceivable that the inner cable can be designed to be electrically conductive, for example in order to transmit an electrical potential. Moreover, the actuation train can have at least one outer cable, which can advantageously be arranged coaxially surrounding the inner cable. In particular, the outer cable can be designed to be flexible over at least a large part of an extent of the actuation train. It is conceivable that the outer cable can be designed to be electrically conductive, for example in order to transmit a further electrical potential. The outer cable could be designed as a hose. For example, the outer cable could be designed as a woven fabric.

The control train of the deflection mechanism is in particular designed to be flexurally slack. A “flexurally slack component” should be understood in particular as a component, preferably an elongate component, which has flexurally slack properties at least in one direction perpendicular to a direction of principal extent. It should preferably be understood in particular as a dimensionally non-stable component. Particularly preferably, it should be understood in particular as a component which, in an elongated state of a pressure force acting parallel to a direction of principal extent, exerts a counterforce which is less than a weight force of the component. Preferably, the counterforce is at most 70%, preferably at most 50% and particularly preferably at most 30% of a weight force. Here, an “elongate component” should be understood in particular as a component having a transverse extent that is many times smaller than a longitudinal extent. Here, “many times smaller” should be understood in particular as at least 3 times smaller, preferably at least 5 times smaller and particularly preferably at least 10 times smaller.

It is proposed that a spacing between the geometric midpoints of the connection members increases at least by 0.3 μm per degree of a deflection of these from the straight position. Bracing of the connection members relative to each other during a deflection can advantageously be increased, as a result of which it is possible to achieve a self-resetting, which can return the connection members to the straight position. Moreover, a degree of self-resetting can advantageously be adjusted depending on an increase in the spacing. A totality of the connection members of the deflection mechanism results, during a deflection of these from the straight position, in an increase in all the spacings relative to each other by at least 1.8 μm per degree of a deflection. For example, during a deflection by at least 90°, there is thus an increase in all the spacings relative to each other by at least 162 μm. Moreover, particularly with a deflection of at least 90°, an angle of at least 15° arises between a first connection member and a second connection member.

In one aspect of the invention, which can be considered in particular in combination with further aspects of the invention, it is proposed that the first connection member has at least one outer contour and the second connection member has at least one inner contour interacting with the outer contour of the first connection member, wherein the inner contour and/or the outer contour are/is other than concave.

In this way, an endoscopic device can advantageously be equipped with a resetting function. It is advantageously possible to avoid a situation where connection members of the deflection mechanism are oriented randomly relative to each other upon a return of the deflectable portion from a basic deflection position.

An “outer contour” is to be understood in particular as an outwardly directed contour. An “inner contour” is to be understood in particular as an inwardly directed contour. The outer contour and the inner contour bear in particular on each other. It is conceivable that either only the inner contour or the outer contour has a shape other than concave. However, it is preferable that both the inner contour and the outer contour have a shape other than concave. In particular, the inner contour and the outer contour are not shaped corresponding to each other.

It is proposed that the outer contour and the inner contour bear on each other at most in part. A rolling of the connection members on each other can advantageously be improved, since they do not bear on each other over a large surface area, and therefore a frictional resistance can be reduced.

It is further proposed that the outer contour and/or the inner contour are convex. A rolling of the connection members on each other can advantageously be further improved, since they do not bear on each other over a large surface area, and therefore a frictional resistance can be reduced. In particular, the outer contour and the inner contour can be convex. Moreover, either the outer contour or the inner contour could be convex. It is moreover conceivable that the outer contour and/or the inner contour are/is neither convex nor concave. For example, the outer contour and/or the inner contour could be straight. Preferably, the outer contour can be convex and the inner contour straight.

It is further proposed that a diameter of a smallest arc of a circle still completely enclosing the outer contour is greater than a connection member width of the first connection member measured perpendicularly to a direction of longitudinal extent of the shaft. A self-resetting can advantageously be further improved. Moreover, a degree of self-resetting, i.e. in particular a spacing between the geometric midpoints of the connection members, can advantageously be adjusted depending on a ratio of the diameter and of the width. In other words, a midpoint of the smallest arc of a circle that encloses the outer contour lies in particular to the other side of a geometric midpoint of the connection member.

It is further proposed that the outer contour and/or the inner contour are/is different at least in part from an arc of a circle. Rolling of the connection members on each other can advantageously be further improved. Moreover, a self-aligning or self-locking action of the connection members can advantageously be further improved. In particular, either the outer contour or the inner contour could be, at least in part, different from an arc of a circle. It is moreover conceivable that the outer contour and the inner contour are, at least in part, different from an arc of a circle.

It is moreover proposed that the outer contour and/or the inner contour are/is designed corresponding at least in part to a shape of an arc of a circle, a circle involute, a cycloid, a paraboloid and/or an ellipsoid. Rolling of the connection members on each other can advantageously be further improved. Moreover, a self-aligning or self-locking action of the connection members can advantageously be further improved. In particular, either the outer contour or the inner contour could be designed corresponding at least in part to a shape of an arc of a circle, a circle involute, a cycloid, a paraboloid and/or an ellipsoid. It is moreover conceivable that the outer contour and the inner contour are designed corresponding at least in part to a shape of an arc of a circle, a circle involute, a cycloid, a paraboloid and/or an ellipsoid.

It is further proposed that the endoscopic device has at least one flexurally slack control train on which the connection members are arranged in rows and which, in the straight position of the connection members, keeps the connection members pretensioned. A deflection of the connection members can advantageously be improved.

It is proposed that the deflection mechanism has a number of first connection members and a number of second connection members, wherein a difference between the number of the first connection members and the number of the second connection members is different than zero. A self-resetting can advantageously be further improved. Moreover, a degree of self-resetting, in particular a spacing between the geometric midpoints of the connection members, can advantageously be adjusted depending on a number of the connection members. Preferably, the deflection mechanism has an odd number of first connection members. In the present case, the deflection mechanism can have three first connection members, Preferably, the deflection mechanism has an even number of second connection members. In the present case, the deflection mechanism can have four second connection members.

The subject matter of the present disclosure is not intended to be restricted to the usage and embodiment described above. In particular, the subject matter of the present disclosure may, in order to realize a functionality described herein, have a number of individual elements, components and units, and also method steps, which differs from a number stated herein. Moreover, in the case of the value ranges specified in this disclosure, values lying within the stated limits are also intended to be disclosed and usable as desired.

If there is more than one instance of a specific object, only one of them is provided with a reference sign in the figures and in the description. The description of this instance can accordingly be transferred to other instances of the object.

DRAWINGS

Further advantages will become clear from the following description of the drawings. The drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the disclosure. The drawings, the description and the claims contain numerous features in combination. A person skilled in the art will expediently also consider the features individually and combine them to form meaningful further combinations.

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a surgical system having an endoscopic device,

FIG. 2 shows a schematic side view of a part of the endoscopic device located in a straight position,

FIG. 3 shows a schematic side view of a part of the endoscopic device located in a deflection position,

FIG. 4 shows a schematic sectional view of a part of the endoscopic device located in a straight position,

FIG. 5 shows a schematic sectional view of a part of the endoscopic device located in a deflection position,

FIG. 6 shows a schematic perspective view of a part of the endoscopic device located in a partially dismantled state,

FIG. 7 shows schematically at least one part of a further endoscopic device, in a sectional view along a shaft of the endoscopic device,

FIG. 8 shows schematically at least one part of the endoscopic device from FIG. 7, in a sectional view transverse to a shaft of the endoscopic device,

FIG. 9 shows a schematic perspective view of a part of the endoscopic device from FIG. 7,

FIG. 10 shows schematically at least one part of an alternative endoscopic device, in a sectional view along a shaft of the endoscopic device in a straight position,

FIG. 11 shows schematically at least one part of the endoscopic device from FIG. 10, in a sectional view along the shaft of the endoscopic device in a deflection position,

FIG. 12 shows a schematic perspective view of at least one part of a further endoscopic device,

FIG. 13 shows a schematic perspective view of at least one part of an additional endoscopic device, in an assembly state,

FIG. 14 shows a schematic perspective view of at least one part of the endoscopic device from FIG. 13, in a further assembly state,

FIG. 15 shows a schematic perspective view of at least one part of the endoscopic device from FIG. 13 and FIG. 14, in an additional assembly state,

FIG. 16 shows a schematic plan view of at least one part of a further endoscopic device,

FIG. 17 shows a schematic perspective view of at least one part of an alternative endoscopic device,

FIG. 18 shows a schematic perspective view of at least one part of an alternative endoscopic device, in an assembly state,

FIG. 19 shows a schematic perspective view of at least one part of the endoscopic device from FIG. 18, in a mounted state,

FIG. 20 shows a schematic perspective view of at least one part of the endoscopic device from FIG. 18, in an assembly state,

FIG. 21 shows a schematic perspective view of at least one part of the endoscopic device from FIG. 18, in a further assembly state,

FIG. 22 shows a schematic perspective view of at least one part of the endoscopic device from FIG. 18, in a mounted state,

FIG. 23 shows a schematic side view of at least one part of an alternative endoscopic device in a straight position,

FIG. 24 shows schematically at least one part of the endoscopic device from FIG. 23, in a sectional view along a shaft of the endoscopic device in the straight position,

FIG. 25 shows a schematic side view of at least one part of the endoscopic device from FIGS. 23 and 24, in a deflection position,

FIG. 26 shows schematically at least one part of the endoscopic device from FIGS. 23,24 and 25, in a sectional view along the shaft of the endoscopic device in the deflection position,

FIG. 27 shows a schematic perspective view of at least one part of an alternative endoscopic device, in an assembly state.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a surgical system 10 a. The surgical system 10 a comprises at least one surgical robot 12 a. The surgical system 10 a moreover comprises at least one controller 14 a. The controller 14 a is configured to control the surgical robot 12 a.

The surgical robot 12 a is configured to guide at least one endoscopic device 16 a of the surgical system 10 a. For this purpose, the surgical robot 12 a has at least one robot arm 18 a. In an operating state, the endoscopic device 16 a is coupled to the robot arm 18 a. The endoscopic device 16 a can be connected releasably to the robot arm 18 a, for example in order to exchange it, modify it, sterilize it or the like. In the present case, the surgical robot 12 a has a plurality of robot arms. Of said robot arms, for the sake of clarity only the robot arm 18 a is provided with a reference sign.

The surgical system 10 a comprises at least one endoscopic device 16 a. In the present case, the surgical system 10 a comprises a plurality of endoscopic devices. The surgical robot 12 a has one robot arm 18 a per endoscopic device 16 a. Of said endoscopic devices, for the sake of clarity only the endoscopic device 16 a is provided with a reference sign. The plurality of endoscopic devices could be designed substantially identical to one another. Substantially identical can mean except for production and/or assembly tolerances. However, it is conceivable that the plurality of endoscopic devices could be designed to be at least partially different from one another and, for example, could differ from one another in terms of an end effector and/or a mode of function. Moreover, it would be obvious for a person skilled in the art to adapt the plurality of endoscopic devices for different surgical uses according to his knowledge in the art.

The endoscopic device 16 a at least partially forms an endoscopic instrument 20 a. In the present case, the endoscopic device 16 a completely forms an endoscopic instrument 20 a. However, an endoscopic device could only be a constituent part of an endoscopic instrument. Moreover, an endoscopic device, for example one of the plurality of endoscopic devices, could at least partially or completely form an endoscope 22 a. However, an endoscopic device could also only be a constituent part of an endoscope.

FIG. 2 shows a schematic side view of a part of the endoscopic device 16 a located in a straight position. Moreover, FIG. 3 shows a schematic side view of a part of the endoscopic device 16 a located in a deflection position.

The endoscopic device 16 a has at least one shaft 26 a. In the present case, the endoscopic device 16 a has precisely one shaft 26 a. The shaft 26 a has a direction of longitudinal extent 38 a. The direction of longitudinal extent 38 a corresponds to a direction of principal extent of the shaft 26 a in the straight position. A longitudinal extent 40 a of the shaft 26 a extends along the direction of longitudinal extent 38 a of the shaft 26 a.

The shaft 26 a comprises at least one end portion 28 a. The end portion 28 a is a distal end portion. The end portion 28 a is configured for the treatment of a patient. Moreover, the shaft 26 a has a further end portion 30 a. The further end portion 30 a is a proximal end portion. The further end portion 30 a is configured for coupling to the surgical robot 12 a, for example to the robot arm 18 a thereof. The end portion 28 a and the further end portion 30 a lie opposite each other. Moreover, the shaft 26 a has a middle portion 32 a. The middle portion 32 a connects the end portion 28 a and the further end portion 30 a to each other. The middle portion 32 a is arranged between the end portion 28 a and the further end portion 30 a.

The shaft 26 a has a main framework 34 a. The main framework 34 a extends from the end portion 28 a to the further end portion 30 a of the shaft 26 a. Moreover, the shaft 26 a has a shaft jacket 36 a. The shaft jacket 36 a at least partially surrounds the main framework 34 a. In the present case, the shaft jacket 36 a at least largely surrounds the main framework 34 a. The shaft jacket 36 a is arranged coaxially to the main framework 34 a. The shaft jacket 36 a at least partially surrounds the middle portion 32 a. In the present case, the shaft jacket 36 a at least largely surrounds the middle portion 32 a. Moreover, the shaft 26 a can have a shaft casing. For the sake of clarity, a shaft casing is not shown in the figures, so as to be able to better show the structure of the main framework 34 a. A shaft casing can be configured to seal off the shaft 26 a from the outside.

The shaft 26 a has at least one deflectable portion 42 a. The deflectable portion 42 a is arranged between the end portion 28 a and the further end portion 30 a. The deflectable portion 42 a is part of the middle portion 32 a. The deflectable portion 42 a directly adjoins the end portion 28 a. The deflectable portion 42 a is spaced apart from the further end portion 30 a. Alternatively, it is conceivable that a deflectable portion at least partially forms an end portion, for example a distal end portion. Advantageously, the deflectable portion could be surrounded by a shaft casing. The shaft casing can be at least partially elastic and/or flexible. For example, the shaft casing can be a rubber hose.

The deflectable portion 42 a is deflectable in at least one plane 44 a. In FIG. 2, the plane 44 a corresponds to an image plane of the figure. In the present case, the deflectable portion 42 a is even deflectable in a plurality of planes, of which, for the sake of clarity, only the plane 44 a is provided with a reference sign and shown in the figures. In the present case, the deflectable portion 42 a is even deflectable along a full circumference of the shaft 26 a. The deflectable portion 42 a is designed to be at least partially flexible.

The main framework 34 a of the shaft 26 a has a cuff 56 a. The cuff 56 a at least partially forms the end portion 28 a of the shaft 26 a. The cuff 56 a adjoins the deflectable portion 42 a at the distal end. Moreover, the main framework 34 a of the shaft 26 a has a further cuff 58 a. The further cuff 58 a at least partially forms the middle portion 32 a of the shaft 26 a. The further cuff 58 a adjoins the deflectable portion 42 a at the proximal end.

The endoscopic device 16 a has at least one deflection mechanism 46 a. The deflection mechanism 46 a is configured for the deflection of the deflectable portion 42 a of the shaft 26 a. In the region of the deflectable portion 42 a, the deflection mechanism 46 a at least partially forms the main framework 34 a of the shaft 26 a.

The deflection mechanism 46 a has at least one first connection member 48 a. In the present case, the deflection mechanism 46 a has a plurality of first connection members, for example three first connection members. Of the plurality of first connection members, for the sake of clarity only the first connection member 48 a is provided with a reference sign. The plurality of first connection members are designed substantially identical. A description of the first connection member 48 a can be applied to the plurality of first connection members. Alternatively, however, the plurality of first connection members could also be designed differing at least partially from one another.

The first connection member 48 a is symmetrical. The first connection member 48 a is designed substantially as a rotation body. The first connection member 48 a has a first axis of rotational symmetry 52 a. About the first axis of rotational symmetry 52 a, the first connection member 48 a has at least one two-fold rotational symmetry. For example, a number of a first rotational symmetry could correspond to a number of planes in which the deflectable portion is deflectable. In a straight position, the direction of longitudinal extent 38 a of the shaft 26 a corresponds to the first axis of rotational symmetry. Moreover, the deflection mechanism 46 a has at least one second connection member 50 a. In the present case, the deflection mechanism 46 a has a plurality of second connection members, for example four second connection members. Of the plurality of second connection members, for the sake of clarity only the second connection member 50 a is provided with a reference sign. Unless otherwise indicated, the plurality of second connection members are designed substantially identically. A description with respect to the second connection member 50 a can thus be applied to the plurality of second connection members. Alternatively, the plurality of second connection members 50 a could also be designed differing at least partially from one another.

The second connection member 50 a is arranged at least partially coaxially surrounding the first connection member 48 a. The second connection member 50 a has an external diameter which is greater than an external diameter of the first connection member 48 a. The second connection member 50 a has a disk-like and/or lens-like shape. The first connection member 48 a has an olive-like shape.

The second connection member 50 a is symmetrical. The second connection member 50 a is designed substantially as a rotation body. The second connection member 50 a has a second axis of rotational symmetry 54 a. About the second axis of rotational symmetry 54 a, the second connection member 50 a has at least one two-fold rotational symmetry. For example, a number of a first rotational symmetry could correspond to a number of planes in which the deflectable portion is deflectable. Moreover, a rotational symmetry of the second connection member 50 a can correspond to that of the first one. In a straight position, the direction of longitudinal extent 38 a of the shaft 26 a corresponds to the second axis of rotational symmetry 54 a. Moreover, in the straight position, the second axis of rotational symmetry 54 a corresponds to the first axis of rotational symmetry 52 a.

A difference between a number of the plurality of first connection members and a number of the plurality of second connection members is different than zero. In the present case, the difference corresponds to the value one, such that the plurality of second connection members always comprise one second connection member 50 a more than the plurality of first connection members comprise first connection members. A number of the plurality of first connection members is odd. A number of the plurality of second connection members is even. In the present case, the plurality of first connection members comprise a total of three first connection members. Moreover, in the present case, the plurality of second connection members comprise a total of four second connection members.

Two of the plurality of second connection members complete the deflectable portion 42 a of the shaft 26 a. One of the plurality of second connection members, advantageously a distal one, is connected to the cuff 56 a. In the present case, the distal second connection member 50 a is integrally connected to the cuff 56 a. This second connection member 50 a connects the deflection mechanism 46 a at least partially integrally to the end portion 28 a of the shaft 26 a.

Another of the plurality of second connection members, advantageously a proximal one, is connected to the further cuff 58 a. In the present case, the proximal second connection member 50 a is integrally connected to the further cuff 58 a. This second connection member 50 a connects the deflection mechanism 46 a at least partially integrally to the middle portion 32 a of the shaft 26 a.

The first connection member 48 a and the second connection member 50 a are configured to interact with each other for a deflection of the shaft 26 a. The first connection member 48 a and the second connection member 50 a are arranged in series.

The plurality of first connection members and the plurality of second connection members are arranged in series. The plurality of first connection members and the plurality of second connection members are arranged in alternation. The plurality of first connection members and the plurality of second connection members are arranged in such a way that a first connection member of the plurality of first connection members is followed by a second connection member of the plurality of second connection members. Moreover, a second connection member of the plurality of second connection members is followed by a first connection member of the plurality of first connection members.

A first connection member of the plurality of first connection members is adjoined by at least one second connection member of the plurality of second connection members. Moreover, a first connection member of the plurality of first connection members is adjoined by two mutually opposite second connection members of the plurality of second connection members. Each of the plurality of first connection members is adjoined by two second connection members of the plurality of second connection members.

A second connection member of the plurality of second connection members is adjoined by at least one first connection member of the plurality of second connection members. Moreover, a second connection member of the plurality of second connection members is adjoined by two mutually opposite first connection members of the plurality of second connection members. Except for the second connection members completing the deflection mechanism, each of the plurality of second connection members is adjoined by two first connection members of the plurality of first connection members.

FIG. 4 shows a schematic sectional view of a part of the endoscopic device 16 a located in a straight position. Moreover, FIG. 3 shows a schematic sectional view of a part of the endoscopic device 16 a located in a deflection position.

The first connection member 48 a and the second connection member 50 a interact in the manner of a ball joint and/or of vertebral bodies. The first connection member 48 a has at least one joint head 60 a. The second connection member 50 a has at least one joint socket 62 a. The joint socket 62 a is designed corresponding to the joint head 60 a. In this way, the joint head 60 a of the first connection member 48 a and the joint socket 62 a of the second connection member 50 a engage in each other, such that the first connection member 48 a and the second connection member 50 a are mounted movably relative to each other. A reverse embodiment is also conceivable in which a first connection member has a joint socket and the second connection member has a joint head 60 a.

In the present case, the first connection member 48 a has two opposite joint heads 60 a. Of said joint heads, for the sake of clarity only the joint head 60 a is provided with a reference sign. The joint heads are designed substantially identical to each other. In the present case, the second connection member 50 a has two opposite joint sockets 62 a. Of said joint sockets, for the sake of clarity only the joint socket 62 a is provided with a reference sign. The joint sockets 62 a are designed substantially identical to each other. Only the second connection members of the plurality of second connection members that complete the deflection mechanism 46 a have only a single joint socket 62 a each.

A first connection member 48 a of the plurality of first connection members is at all times engaged from two opposite sides by two second connection members of the plurality of second connection members. To put it another way, opposite joint heads of an individual first connection member 48 a of the plurality of first connection members are in each case engaged by a joint socket 62 a of two second connection members of the plurality of second connection members. In this way, two joint sockets of two separate second connection members of the plurality of second connection members bear on two joint heads of an individual first connection member 48 a of the plurality of first connection members.

Moreover, two first connection members at all times engage from two opposite sides in a second connection member 50 a of the plurality of second connection members. To put it another way, joint heads of two first connection members of the plurality of first connection members each engage in one of the opposite joint sockets 62 a of a second connection member 50 a of the plurality of second connection members. In this way, two joint heads of two separate first connection members of the plurality of first connection members bear on two joint sockets of an individual second connection member 50 a of the plurality of second connection members.

Only the second connection members of the plurality of second connection members that complete the deflection mechanism 46 a engage around only a single first connection member 48 a of the plurality of first connection members. To put it another way, only one joint head 60 a of a single first connection member 48 a of the plurality of first connection members engages in each case in the single joint socket 62 a of the second connection member 50 a of the plurality of second connection members that completes the deflection mechanism. In this way, only a single joint head of a first connection member 48 a of the plurality of first connection members bears in a single joint head 60 a of an individual second connection member 50 a of the plurality of second connection members that completes this deflection mechanism 46 a.

In the straight position, which is shown for example in FIGS. 2 and 4, a first axis of rotational symmetry 52 a of the first connection member 48 a and a second axis of rotational symmetry 54 a of the second connection member 50 a correspond to each other. In the deflection position, which is shown for example in FIGS. 3 and 5, the direction of principal extent of the first connection member 48 a and that of the second connection member 50 a are arranged at an angle to each other. In the deflection position, an angle between the first axis of rotational symmetry 52 a of the first connection member 48 a and the second axis of rotational symmetry 54 a of the second connection member 50 a is at most 15°. A maximum angle is limited here by the fact that two of the plurality of second connection members engaging around a first connection member of the plurality of first connection members about each other.

The first connection member 48 a has a first geometric midpoint 64 a. Moreover, the second connection member 50 a has a second geometric midpoint 66 a. In the straight position, the first geometric midpoint 64 a and the second geometric midpoint 66 a are arranged offset relative to each other along the direction of longitudinal extent 38 a of the shaft 26 a. In the straight position, a straight-position spacing 68 a exists between the first connection member and second connection member. The straight-position spacing 68 a is defined by a shortest connection between the first geometric midpoint 64 a of the first connection member 48 a and the second geometric midpoint 66 a of the second connection member 50 a.

In the deflection position, the first geometric midpoint 64 a and the second geometric midpoint 66 a are arranged offset relative to each other. In the deflection position, a deflection spacing 70 a exists between the first connection member 48 a and second connection member 50 a. In the deflection position, the deflection spacing 70 a is defined by a shortest connection between the first geometric midpoint 64 a of the first connection member 48 a and the second geometric midpoint 66 a of the second connection member 50 a. In the present exemplary embodiment, the deflection-position spacing 70 a in the deflection position is equal to the straight-position spacing 68 a in the straight position. Alternatively, however, the deflection spacing could also be greater or less than the straight-position spacing 68 a, for example depending on an embodiment of the connection members.

The first connection member 48 a has at least one outer contour 72 a. The outer contour 72 a partially forms the joint head 60 a of the first connection member 48 a. The outer contour 72 a is directed outward. The outer contour 72 a faces in the direction of an environment of the shaft 26 a. The design of the outer contour 72 a differs from concave. In the present case, the outer contour 72 a is of convex design. The outer contour 72 a corresponds to an arc of a circle 76 a. Alternatively, the outer contour could have at least in part a shape different from the shape of an arc of a circle, being designed for example in the form of a circle involute, a cycloid, a paraboloid and/or an ellipsoid.

There exists a diameter 74 a of a smallest arc of a circle 76 a still just completely enclosing the outer contour 72 a of the first connection member 48 a. In the present exemplary embodiment, this diameter 74 a corresponds substantially to a maximum width of the first connection member. Here, the width is measured perpendicular to the first axis of rotational symmetry 52 a and/or to the direction of longitudinal extent 38 a of the shaft 26 a. However, it is also conceivable that a diameter is different from a width and is for example greater than the latter.

The second connection member 50 a has at least one inner contour 78 a. The inner contour 78 a at least partially forms the joint socket 62 a of the second connection member 50 a. The inner contour 78 a of the second connection member 50 a is configured for interaction with the outer contour 72 a of the first connection member. The outer contour 72 a of the first connection member 48 a and the inner contour 78 a of the second connection member 50 a lie opposite each other. The outer contour 72 a and the inner contour 78 a bear at most partially on each other. The inner contour 78 a of the second connection member 50 a is designed corresponding to the outer contour 72 a of the first connection member 48 a. The inner contour 78 a is directed inward. The design of the inner contour 78 a differs from concave. Moreover, in the present case, the inner contour 78 a is straight. Alternatively, an inner contour could be designed corresponding at least partially to an in particular convex shape of a circle involute, an arc of a circle, a cycloid, a paraboloid and/or an ellipsoid.

The deflection mechanism 46 a has at least one control train 80 a. In the present case, the deflection mechanism 46 a has a plurality of control trains 80 a, for example at least three control trains. Of said plurality of control trains, for the sake of clarity only the control train 80 a is provided with a reference sign. The plurality of control trains are arranged offset relative to one another along a circumference of the shaft 26 a. The plurality of control trains extend substantially parallel to one another. Moreover, the plurality of control trains are arranged coaxially surrounding at least the first connection member or even the plurality of first connection members. The plurality of control trains are here designed substantially identically, such that a description with respect to the control train 80 a can be applied to the plurality of control trains. Alternatively, the plurality of control trains could also be designed at least partially different from one another.

The control train 80 a is configured for an adjustment of a deflection of the deflectable portion 42 a of the shaft 26 a. The control train 80 a can be actuated by means of an actuator system. For the sake of clarity, the actuator system is not shown here. The actuator system can be part of the endoscopic device 16 a or also part of the surgical robot 12 a, for example of the robot arm 18 a. The control train 80 a extends at least partially through the shaft 26 a. In the present case, the control train 80 a extends through the entire shaft 26 a. Moreover, the control train 80 a even extends partially beyond the shaft 26 a, for example in order to be coupled to an actuator system.

The control train 80 a is coupled to the connection members 48 a, 50 a. The connection members 48 a, 50 a are arranged in a row on the control train 80 a. At least in the straight position, the control train 80 a keeps the connection members 48 a, 50 a pretensioned. Alternatively or in addition, a control train could be configured for a rotation of a shaft.

The control train 80 a is designed to be flexurally slack. In the present case, the control train 80 a is designed as a wire. The control train 80 a is formed from a cord, for example a metal cord. The control train 80 a has a diameter 74 a. The diameter can be at least 2.5% and/or at most 25% of an external diameter of the shaft 26 a. In the present case, the diameter 74 a measures 0.36 mm, for example.

The control train 80 a is guided substantially parallel to the shaft 26 a. The control train 80 a extends at least partially parallel to a direction of longitudinal extent 38 a of the shaft 26 a. Moreover, the control train 80 a is guided in doubled form. The control train 80 a is divided into a portion which is guided in the direction of the end portion 28 a and away from the further end portion 30 a, and a portion which is guided away from the end portion 28 a and in the direction of the further end portion 30 a.

For guiding the control train 80 a, the second connection member 50 a has at least one passageway 82 a. The passageway 82 a has at least funnel-shaped or two funnel-shaped openings. In the present case, the second connection member has a plurality of passageways of which, for the sake of clarity, only the passageway 82 a is provided with a reference sign. The plurality of passageways are arranged offset relative to each other along a circumference of the second connection member 50 a. The plurality of passageways are substantially identical to one another, such that a description with respect to the passageway 82 a can be applied to the plurality of passageways. Alternatively, the plurality of passageways could also be designed at least partially different from one another.

In each case, two passageways of the second connection member 50 a guide one control train 80 a. A passageway 82 a of the second connection member 50 a guides a portion of the control train 80 a guided away from the further end portion 30 a, and a further passageway 82 a of the second connection member 50 a guides a portion of the control train 80 a guided away from the end portion 28 a.

FIG. 6 shows a schematic perspective view of a part of the endoscopic device 16 a in a partially dismantled state. The control train 80 a is connected to the end portion 28 a of the shaft 26 a. In the region of the end portion 28 a of the shaft 26 a, a part of the control train 80 a is arranged to form a loop-back 84 a.

The end portion 28 a of the shaft 26 a has at least one train receptacle 86 a. The train receptacle 86 a is arranged on the cuff 56 a. The control train 80 a is arranged at least partially in the train receptacle 86 a. The part of the control train 80 a forming the loop-back 84 a is arranged in the train receptacle 86 a. Before the loop-back 84 a, the train receptacle 86 a guides the control train 80 a in the direction of the end portion 28 a of the shaft 26 a. After the loop-back 84 a, the train receptacle 86 a guides the control train 80 a back again from the end portion 28 a of the shaft 26 a. The train receptacle 86 a has at least one passageway 88 a for at least an axial engagement of the control train 80 a.

In the present case, the train receptacle 86 a has a plurality of passageways. For the sake of clarity, of the passageways only the passageway 88 a is provided with a reference sign. The passageways are arranged on the cuff 56 a. The passageways are arranged offset relative to one another in the circumferential direction of the shaft 26 a. In each case, two passageways of the end portion 28 a guide a control train 80 a. Alternatively, instead of a looped-back control train, two individual control trains could be used. A passageway 82 a of the second connection member 50 a guides a portion of the control train 80 a guided away from the further end portion 30 a, and a further passageway 88 a of the second connection member 50 a guides a portion of the control train 80 a guided away from the end portion 28 a.

The endoscopic device 16 a has at least one end effector 90 a. in FIGS. 2 and 4, the end effector 90 a is shown in a closed operating state. In FIGS. 3 and 5, the end effector 90 a is shown in an opened operating state. In the present case, the endoscopic device 16 a has precisely one end effector 90 a. The end effector 90 a is arranged on an end portion 28 a of the shaft 26 a. The end effector 90 a is connected at least partially integrally to the end portion 28 a of the shaft 26 a. In the present case, the end effector 90 a is designed in the form of forceps. The end effector 90 a can also be designed in the form of scissors, a clamp, forceps, a scalpel, a coagulator, a stapler, a test hook or the like. An end effector could be configured to be electrically conductive, in order advantageously to transmit current. For example, an end effector could thus be unipolar, bipolar or the like.

The end effector 90 a comprises at least one tool piece 92 a. In the present case, the end effector 90 a has at least one further tool piece 94 a. The further tool piece 94 a is configured for interaction with the tool piece 92 a. The further tool piece 94 a is substantially identical to the tool piece 92 a. In the present case, the end effector 90 a comprises two tool pieces 92 a, 94 a in total. A tool piece could be a scissor blade, a cutting edge, an electrode or another tool piece, in particular a surgical tool piece. In the present case, the tool piece 92 a, 94 a forms a jaw part. The jaw part is a branch. The branch can be adapted to a specific purpose of use.

The end effector 90 a has an end-effector head 96 a. The end-effector head 96 a is connected integrally to an end portion 28 a of the shaft 26 a. The end-effector head 96 a is formed integrally with the cuff 56 a. Moreover, the end-effector head 96 a is integrally connected to the second connection member that distally completes the deflection mechanism 46 a.

The end-effector head 96 a has an end-effector fork 98 a. The end-effector fork 98 a comprises at least one end-effector limb 100 a. Moreover, the end-effector fork 98 a comprises a further end-effector limb 102 a. The end-effector limb 100 a and the further end-effector limb 102 a are arranged lying opposite each other. The end-effector limb 100 a and the further end-effector limb 102 a are connected to each other. The end-effector limb 100 a and the further end-effector limb 102 a of the end-effector head 96 a are integrally connected to each other.

The end-effector head 96 a defines an end-effector bushing 104 a of the end effector 90 a. Further components of the endoscopic device 16 a, for example a movement transducer 116 a, can be arranged in the end-effector bushing 104 a.

The endoscopic device 16 a has at least one actuation train 106 a. In the present case, the endoscopic device 16 a has precisely one actuation train 106 a. The actuation train 106 a is configured for actuation of the end effector 90 a. The actuation train 106 a can be actuated by means of an actuator system. The actuator system can be part of the endoscopic device 16 a or also part of the surgical robot 12 a, specifically of the robot arm 18 a for example.

The actuation train 106 a extends at least partially through the shaft 26 a. The actuation train 106 a extends centrally through the shaft 26 a. In the present case, the actuation train 106 a extends through the entre shaft 26 a. Moreover, the actuation train 106 a even extends partially beyond the shaft 26 a, for example in order to be coupled to an actuator system.

The actuation train 106 a is at least partially flexible. The actuation train 106 a has at least one flexible portion 108 a. The actuation train 106 a is at least partially inflexible. Moreover, the actuation train 106 a has at least one inflexible portion 110 a. The inflexible portion 110 a is less flexible compared to the flexible portion 108 a. The flexible portion 108 a is arranged following the inflexible portion 110 a.

The actuation train 106 a is arranged in the shaft 26 a in such a way that the flexible portion 108 a of the actuation train 106 a is congruent with the deflectable portion 42 a of the shaft 26 a. The actuation train 106 a is therefore flexible in the region of the deflectable portion 42 a of the shaft 26 a.

The actuation train 106 a has at least one inner cable 112 a. The inner cable 112 a is designed as a cord. Alternatively, the inner cable could also have a solid wire. The inner cable 112 a is configured at least for a mechanical force transmission. The inner cable 112 a is at least partially flexible, for example in the flexible portion of the actuation train 106 a. In the present case, the inner cable 112 a is flexible over the full extent of the actuation train 106 a.

The actuation train 106 a has at least one reinforcement 114 a. The reinforcement 114 a stiffens the actuation train 106 a at least partially. The reinforcement 114 a stiffens the actuation train 106 a at least in a region of the shaft 26 a different from the flexible portion 108 a. The reinforcement 114 a partially stiffens the inner cable 112 a. The reinforcement 114 a is arranged coaxially surrounding the inner cable 112 a. The reinforcement 114 a is designed as a tube. The reinforcement 114 a is formed at least partially from a metal. Alternatively or in addition, the reinforcement 114 a can be formed at least partially from a plastic. The reinforcement 114 a is arranged in the inflexible portion 110 a of the actuation train 106 a. By contrast, the flexible portion 108 a of the actuation train 106 a is free of a reinforcement 114 a.

The endoscopic device 16 a has at least one movement transducer 116 a. In the present case, the endoscopic device 16 a has precisely one movement transducer 116 a. The movement transducer 116 a is configured to couple the end effector 90 a and the actuation train 106 a at least mechanically to each other. Alternatively, it would be conceivable that the movement transducer also connects the end effector and the actuation train electrically to each other.

The movement transducer 116 a is configured to convert a movement of the actuation train 106 a into a movement of at least one tool piece 92 a. The movement of the actuation train 106 a is a linear movement. The movement of the tool piece 92 a is a pivoting movement. It would be conceivable that the further tool piece 94 a is arranged fixedly or, in other words, is immovable. In the present case, however, the further tool piece 94 a is also coupled to the actuation train 106 a via the movement transducer 116 a. The movement transducer 116 a is configured to convert a movement of the actuation train 106 a into a movement of the further tool piece 94 a. The movement of the further tool piece 94 a is a pivoting movement.

Independently of an operating state, the movement transducer 116 a is arranged such that it cannot emerge from inside at least one part of the end effector 90 a. In the present case, the movement transducer 116 a is arranged at least largely in the end-effector head 96 a, independently of an operating state. The movement transducer 106 a is arranged at least largely in the end-effector bushing 104 a of the end-effector head 96 a, independently of an operating state. Independently of an operating state, the end-effector head 96 a, in a side view, at least largely covers the movement transducer 116 a. The movement transducer 116 a is covered laterally by the end-effector fork 98 a, since it is arranged congruent with the end-effector limbs 100 a, 102 a of the end-effector fork 98 a. In the present case, in a side view, at least one end-effector limb 100 a, 102 a of the end-effector fork 98 a of the end-effector head 96 a at least largely covers the movement transducer.

The movement transducer 116 a defines at least one pivot axis 118 a. The pivot axis 118 a is configured for the pivoting of the tool piece 92 a. The pivot axis 118 a is oriented at least substantially perpendicular to an axis of principal extent 120 a of the end effector 90 a. The pivot axis 118 a is arranged offset laterally with respect to an axis of principal extent 120 a of the end effector 90 a. To put it another way, the axis of principal extent 120 a of the end effector 90 a and the pivot axis 118 a do not intersect. Moreover, an imaginary plane exists which is parallel to the axis of principal extent 120 a of the end effector 90 a and on which the pivot axis 118 a is oriented substantially perpendicularly.

The movement transducer 116 a has a mechanical force path. By way of the mechanical force path, the movement transducer 116 a transmits a force from the actuation train 106 a at least to the tool piece 92 a of the end effector 90 a. In the present case, the movement transducer 106 a has at least one further mechanical force path. By way of the further mechanical force path, the movement transducer transmits a force from the actuation train 106 a to the further tool piece 94 a of the end effector 90 a.

The movement transducer 116 a comprises at least one push and/or pull piston 122 a. In the present case, the movement transducer 116 a comprises precisely one push and/or pull piston 122 a. Independently of an operating state, the push and/or pull piston 122 a is arranged at least largely in the end-effector bushing 104 a. In a side view, the push and/or pull piston 122 a is concealed by the end-effector fork 98 a, for example by the end-effector limb 100 a and/or the further end-effector limb 102 a of the end-effector fork 98 a. The push and/or pull piston 122 a is at least connected to the actuation train 106 a for the force transmission. Moreover, the push and/or pull piston 122 a could be connected electrically to the actuation train 106 a.

The push and/or pull piston 122 a is guided linearly. The end-effector head 96 a has a piston guide 126 a. The piston guide 126 a is designed corresponding to at least one part of the push and/or pull piston 122 a. The piston guide 126 a is configured for a linear guiding of the push and/or pull piston 122 a. The push and/or pull piston 122 a has a bolt 124 a. The bolt 124 a has a cylindrical shape. The bolt 124 a is arranged in a piston guide 126 a of the end-effector head 96 a.

The actuation train 106 a and the push and/or pull piston 122 a are connected to each other at least by form-fit and/or force-fit engagement. In the present case, the actuation train 106 a and the push and/or pull piston 122 a are even connected to each other by frictional engagement. The actuation train 106 a and the push and/or pull piston 122 a are connected to each other by a plastic deformation of the push and/or pull piston 122 a and/or of the actuation train 106 a. The push and/or pull piston 122 a and/or the actuation train 106 a are crimped to each other. In the present case, the bolt 124 a of the push and/or pull piston 122 a is designed for connection to the actuation train 106 a.

The bolt 124 a of the push and/or pull piston 122 a defines an actuation train receptacle 128 a. The actuation train 106 a is inserted partially into the actuation train receptacle 128 a. The bolt 124 a is pressed together with the actuation train 106 a. In this way, the actuation train 106 a is pressed into the bolt 124 a. Alternatively or in addition, the actuation train and the push and/or pull piston could be connected to each other at least by cohesive bonding. For example, the actuation train and the push and/or pull piston could be soldered and/or adhesively bonded to each other. For example, the bolt 124 a has filling holes into which an adhesive or soldering tin can be inserted for cohesively bonded connection into the actuation train receptacle.

The push and/or pull piston 122 a has an armature 130 a. The armature 130 a is substantially plate-shaped. The armature 130 a has the shape of a substantially circular contour. The end-effector fork 98 a forms an abutment for the armature 130 a. The armature 130 a is greater in at least one dimension than the piston-guide receptacle. In this way, the armature 130 a limits a linear movement of the push and/or pull piston 122 a or of the actuation train 106 a. The armature 130 a is arranged in the end-effector bushing 104 a. In a side view, the armature 130 a is concealed by the end-effector fork 98 a, for example by the end-effector limb 100 a and/or the further end-effector limb 102 a of the end-effector fork 98 a. The armature 130 a is connected to the bolt 124 a.

The push and/or pull piston 122 a is formed at least partially integrally. In the present case, the armature 130 a and the bolt 124 a of the push and/or pull piston 122 a are integrally connected to each other. Alternatively, the push and/or pull piston could also be designed in multiple parts. In the present case, the armature 130 a and the bolt 124 a are connected integrally to each other. The push and/or pull piston 122 a is formed at least partially from metal. For example, the push and/or pull piston 122 a can also be an injection-molded component.

The movement transducer 116 a has at least one pivot lever 132 a. The pivot lever 132 a is connected at least mechanically to the push and/or pull piston 122 a. The pivot lever 132 a is connected to the end effector 90 a. The pivot lever 132 a is connected to the tool piece 92 a. In the present case, the pivot lever 132 a is connected integrally to the tool piece 92 a. The pivot lever 132 a is arranged at least partially in the end-effector bushing 104 a. In the present case, the pivot lever 132 a is arranged at least partially in the end-effector bushing 104 a. In a side view, the pivot lever 132 a is concealed by the end-effector fork 98 a, for example by the end-effector limb 100 a and/or the further end-effector limb 102 a of the end-effector fork 98 a. The pivot lever 132 a bears on the push and/or pull piston 122 a, specifically for example on the armature 130 a of the push and/or pull piston 122 a.

The pivot lever 132 a has a pivot lever main body 134 a. The pivot lever main body 134 a is substantially plate-shaped. In a side view, the pivot lever main body 134 a has a circular contour. The pivot lever main body 134 a is formed integrally with the tool piece 92 a.

The movement transducer 116 a has a coupling mechanism 136 a. The coupling mechanism 136 a is configured at least for a mechanical coupling of the pivot lever 132 a and of the push and/or pull piston 122 a. The coupling mechanism 136 a is formed at least partially by the pivot lever 132 a. Moreover, the coupling mechanism 136 a is formed at least partially by the push and/or pull piston 122 a. The coupling mechanism 136 a has at least one coupling element 138 a. The coupling mechanism 136 a has at least one corresponding coupling element 140 a. The corresponding coupling element 140 a is designed corresponding to the coupling element 138 a. The coupling element 138 a and the corresponding coupling element 140 a together define the pivot axis 118 a of the movement transducer 116 a, which is oriented at least substantially perpendicular to an axis of principal extent 120 a of the end effector 90 a and is arranged laterally offset relative to the latter.

The coupling element 138 a is part of the push and/or pull piston 122 a. The coupling element 138 a is arranged on the armature 130 a of the push and/or pull piston 122 a. The coupling element 138 a is connected rigidly to the armature 130 a. The coupling element 138 a is arranged offset relative to a geometric midpoint 64 a, 66 a of the armature 130 a. The coupling element 138 a is arranged offset relative to the axis of principal extent 120 a. In the present case, the coupling element 138 a is designed as a cam.

The corresponding coupling element 140 a is part of the pivot lever 132 a. The corresponding coupling element 140 a is arranged on the pivot lever main body 134 a and/or connected thereto. The corresponding coupling element 140 a is arranged offset relative to a geometric midpoint 64 a, 66 a of the pivot lever main body 134 a. The corresponding coupling element 140 a is arranged offset relative to the axis of principal extent 120 a of the end effector 120 a. In the present case, the corresponding coupling element 140 a is designed as a cam carrier, for example in the form of a laterally opened recess of the pivot lever 132 a. When the push and/or pull piston 122 a and the pivot lever 132 a are coupled to each other by means of the coupling mechanism 136 a, the coupling element 138 a and the corresponding coupling element 140 a engage in each other and make mutual contact. Alternatively, the embodiments of the coupling element and of the corresponding coupling element could also be changed around. For example, the coupling element could thus be designed as a cam carrier and the corresponding coupling element could be designed as a cam.

The movement transducer 116 a has a rotary bearing 142 a. The rotary bearing 142 a is configured at least for a rotary mounting of the tool piece 92 a relative to the end-effector head 96 a. The rotary bearing 142 a is formed at least partially by the pivot lever 132 a. Moreover, the rotary bearing 142 a is formed at least partially by the end-effector head 96 a. The rotary bearing 142 a has at least one bearing element 144 a. The rotary bearing 142 a has at least one corresponding bearing element 146 a. The corresponding bearing element 146 a is designed corresponding to the bearing element 144 a. The bearing element 144 a and the corresponding bearing element 146 a together define a rotary axis 148 a about which the tool piece 92 a rotates upon actuation of the tool piece 92 a. The rotary axis 148 a is oriented at least substantially perpendicular to an axis of principal extent 120 a of the end effector 90 a and is arranged laterally offset relative thereto. Moreover, the rotary axis 148 a is arranged substantially parallel to the pivot axis 118 a. In relation to an axis of principal extent 120 a of the end effector 90 a, the rotary axis 148 a lies opposite the pivot axis 118 a.

The bearing element 144 a is part of the pivot lever 132 a. The bearing element 144 a is arranged on the pivot lever main body 134 a and/or connected thereto. The bearing element 144 a is arranged offset relative to a geometric midpoint 64 a, 66 a of the pivot lever main body 134 a. The bearing element 144 a is arranged offset relative to the axis of principal extent 120 a of the end effector 90 a. The bearing element 144 a lies opposite the corresponding coupling element 140 a. In the present case, the bearing element 144 a is designed as a cam.

The corresponding bearing element 146 a is part of the end-effector head 96 a. The corresponding bearing element 146 a is arranged on the end-effector limb 100 a of the end-effector fork 98 a and/or connected thereto. The corresponding bearing element 146 a is arranged offset relative to a geometric midpoint 64 a, 66 a of the end-effector limb 100 a. The corresponding bearing element 146 a is arranged offset relative to the axis of principal extent 120 a of the end effector 90 a. In the present case, the corresponding bearing element 146 a is designed as a cam carrier, for example in the form of a laterally opened recess of the end-effector limb 100 a. When the pivot lever 132 a and the end-effector head 96 a are mounted rotatably to each other by means of the rotary bearing 142 a, the bearing element 144 a and the corresponding coupling element 140 a engage in each other and make mutual contact. Alternatively, the embodiments of the bearing element and of the corresponding bearing element could also be changed around. For example, the bearing element could thus be designed as a cam carrier and the corresponding bearing element could be designed as a cam.

The movement transducer 116 a has at least one further pivot lever 150 a. The further pivot lever 150 a is connected at least mechanically to the push and/or pull piston 122 a. The further pivot lever 150 a is connected to the end effector 90 a. The further pivot lever 150 a is connected to the further tool piece 94 a. In the present case, the further pivot lever 150 a is connected integrally to the further tool piece 94 a. The further pivot lever 150 a is arranged at least partially in the end-effector bushing 104 a. In the present case, the further pivot lever 150 a is arranged at least partially in the end-effector bushing 104 a. In a side view, the further pivot lever 150 a is concealed by the end-effector fork 98 a, for example by the end-effector limb 100 a and/or the further end-effector limb 102 a of the end-effector fork 98 a. The further pivot lever 150 a bears on the push and/or pull piston 122 a, specifically for example on the armature 130 a of the push and/or pull piston 122 a. The further pivot lever 150 a bears on the push and/or pull piston 122 a on a side lying opposite the pivot lever 132 a.

The further pivot lever 150 a has a further pivot lever main body 152 a. The further pivot lever main body 152 a is plate-shaped. In a side view, the further pivot lever main body 152 a has a circular contour. The further pivot lever main body 152 a is formed integrally with the further tool piece 94 a.

The movement transducer 116 a has a further coupling mechanism 154 a. The further coupling mechanism 154 a is configured at least for a mechanical coupling of the further pivot lever 150 a and of the push and/or pull piston 122 a. The further coupling mechanism 154 a is formed at least partially by the further pivot lever 150 a. Moreover, the further coupling mechanism 154 a is formed at least partially by the push and/or pull piston 122 a. The further coupling mechanism 154 a has at least one further coupling element 156 a. The further coupling mechanism 154 a has at least one further corresponding coupling element 158 a. The further corresponding coupling element 158 a is designed corresponding to the coupling element 156 a. The further coupling element 156 a and the further corresponding coupling element 158 a together define the further pivot axis 160 a of the movement transducer 116 a, which is oriented at least substantially perpendicular to an axis of principal extent 120 a of the end effector 90 a and is laterally offset relative thereto. In relation to the axis of principal extent 120 a, the further pivot axis 160 a lies opposite the pivot axis 118 a. The further pivot axis 160 a is substantially parallel to the pivot axis 108 a.

The further coupling element 156 a is part of the push and/or pull piston 122 a. The further coupling element 156 a is arranged on the armature 130 a of the push and/or pull piston 122 a. The further coupling element 156 a is arranged on the side of the armature 130 a lying opposite the side on which the coupling element 138 a is arranged. The further coupling element 156 a is connected rigidly to the armature 130 a. The further coupling element 156 a is arranged offset relative to a geometric midpoint 64 a, 66 a of the armature 130 a. The further coupling element 156 a is arranged offset relative to the axis of principal extent 120 a. In the present case, the further coupling element 156 a is designed as a cam.

The further corresponding coupling element 158 a is part of the further pivot lever 150 a. The further corresponding coupling element 158 a is arranged on the further pivot lever main body 152 a and/or connected thereto. The further corresponding coupling element 158 a is arranged offset relative to a geometric midpoint 64 a, 66 a of the further pivot lever main body 152 a. The further corresponding coupling element 158 a is arranged offset relative to the axis of principal extent 120 a of the end effector 90 a. In the present case, the further corresponding coupling element 158 a is designed as a cam carrier, for example in the form of a laterally opened recess of the further pivot lever 150 a. When the push and/or pull piston 122 a and the further pivot lever 150 a are coupled to each other by means of the further coupling mechanism 154 a, the further coupling element 156 a and the corresponding coupling element 158 a engage in each other and make mutual contact. Alternatively, the embodiments of the further coupling element and of the further corresponding coupling element could also be changed around. For example, the further coupling element could thus be designed as a cam carrier and the further corresponding coupling element could be designed as a cam.

The movement transducer 116 a has a further rotary bearing 162 a. The further rotary bearing 162 a is configured at least for a rotary mounting of the further tool piece 94 a relative to the end-effector head 96 a. The further rotary bearing 162 a is formed at least partially by the further pivot lever 150 a. Moreover, the further rotary bearing 162 a is formed at least partially by the end-effector head 96 a. The further rotary bearing 162 a has at least one further bearing element 164 a. The further rotary bearing 162 a has at least one further corresponding bearing element 166 a. The further corresponding bearing element 166 a is designed corresponding to the further bearing element 164 a. The further bearing element 164 a and the further corresponding bearing element 166 a together define a further rotary axis 168 a about which the further tool piece 94 a rotates upon actuation of the further tool piece 94 a. The further rotary axis 168 a is oriented at least substantially perpendicular to an axis of principal extent 120 a of the end effector 90 a and is arranged laterally offset relative thereto. Moreover, the further rotary axis 168 a is arranged substantially parallel to the further pivot axis 160 a. In relation to an axis of principal extent 120 a of the end effector 90 a, the further rotary axis 168 a lies opposite the further pivot axis 160 a.

The further bearing element 164 a is part of the further pivot lever 150 a. The further bearing element 164 a is arranged on the further pivot lever main body 152 a and/or connected thereto. The further bearing element 164 a is arranged offset relative to a geometric midpoint 64 a, 66 a of the further pivot lever main body 152 a. The further bearing element 164 a is arranged offset relative to the axis of principal extent 120 a of the end effector 90 a. The further bearing element 164 a lies opposite the corresponding further coupling element 156 a. In the present case, the further bearing element 164 a is designed as a cam.

The further corresponding bearing element 166 a is part of the end-effector head 96 a. The further corresponding bearing element 166 a is arranged on the further end-effector limb 102 a of the end-effector fork 98 a and/or connected thereto. The further corresponding bearing element 166 a is arranged offset relative to a geometric midpoint 64 a, 66 a of the further end-effector limb 102 a. The further corresponding bearing element 166 a is arranged offset relative to the axis of principal extent 120 a of the end effector 90 a. In the present case, the further corresponding bearing element 166 a is designed as a cam carrier, for example in the form of a laterally opened recess of the further end-effector limb 102 a. When the further pivot lever 150 a and the end-effector head 96 a are mounted rotatably to each other by means of the further rotary bearing 162 a, the further bearing element 164 a and the further corresponding coupling element 158 a engage in each other and make mutual contact. Alternatively, the embodiments of the further bearing element and of the further corresponding bearing element could also be changed around. For example, the further bearing element could thus be designed as a cam carrier and the further corresponding bearing element could be designed as a cam.

The movement transducer 116 a has a guide bearing 170 a. The guide bearing 170 a is configured to guide constituent parts of the movement transducer 116 a. For guiding of the pivot lever 132 a, the guide bearing 170 a has a slotted guide 172 a. The slotted guide 172 a is designed in the form of a curved oblong hole. The slotted guide 172 a is defined by the pivot lever 132 a. The slotted guide 172 a extends through a geometric midpoint 64 a, 66 a of the pivot lever 132 a. The slotted guide 172 a is formed by a recess of the pivot lever main body 134 a.

For guiding the further pivot lever 150 a, the guide bearing 170 a has a further slotted guide 174 a. The further slotted guide 174 a is designed in the form of a curved oblong hole. Compared to the slotted guide 172 a, the further slotted guide 174 a is at least rotated through 180° . The further slotted guide 174 a is defined by the further pivot lever 150 a. The further slotted guide 174 a extends through a geometric midpoint 64 a, 66 a of the further pivot lever 150 a. The further slotted guide 174 a is formed by a recess of the further pivot lever main body 152 a.

For guiding the push and/or pull piston 122 a, the guide bearing 170 a has an additional slotted guide 176 a. The additional slotted guide 176 a is designed in the form of a straight oblong hole. The additional slotted guide 176 a is defined by the push and/or pull piston 122 a. The further slotted guide 174 a extends through a geometric midpoint 64 a, 66 a of the armature 130 a of the push and/or pull piston 122 a. The additional slotted guide 176 a is formed by a recess of the further armature 130 a.

The guide bearing 170 a moreover comprises a guide pin 178 a. The guide pin 178 a is arranged extending through the slotted guide 172 a. Moreover, the guide pin 178 a is arranged extending through the additional slotted guide 176 a. Moreover, the guide pin 178 a is arranged extending through the further slotted guide 174 a. The guide pin 178 a is connected to the end-effector head 96 a, specifically for example to the end-effector fork 98 a. The end-effector limb 100 a of the end-effector fork 98 a has a pin receptacle 180 a. The pin receptacle is designed for form-fit and/or force-fit connection to the guide pin 178 a. Moreover, the further end-effector limb 102 a of the end-effector fork 98 a has a further pin receptacle 182 a. The further pin receptacle 182 a is designed for from-fit and/or force-fit connection to the guide pin 178 a. In a mounted state, the guide pin 178 a extends through the pin receptacle 180 a, the slotted guide 172 a, the additional slotted guide 176 a, the further slotted guide 174 a and the further pin receptacles 182 a. The guide pin 178 a secures the pivot lever, the further pivot lever 150 a and the push and/or pull piston 122 a on the end-effector head 96 a.

FIGS. 7 to 27 show further exemplary embodiments according to the disclosure. The following descriptions and the drawings are substantially restricted to the differences between the exemplary embodiments, wherein, in respect of components with the same label, in particular in respect of components with the same reference signs, reference is also made, as a matter of principle, to the drawings and/or the description of the other exemplary embodiments, in particular of FIGS. 1 to 6. All combinations of the exemplary embodiments mentioned here should also be considered disclosed. In order to distinguish the exemplary embodiments, the letter a has been appended to the reference signs of the exemplary embodiment in FIGS. 1 to 6. In the exemplary embodiments of FIGS. 7 to 27, the letter a has been replaced by the letters b to j.

FIG. 7 shows schematically a further exemplary embodiment of at least one part of an endoscopic device 16 b according to the principles of the present disclosure, in a sectional view along a shaft 26 b of the endoscopic device 16 b. The present exemplary embodiment differs from the preceding one essentially in terms of an electrification of the endoscopic device 16 b.

The endoscopic device 16 b has an actuation train 106 b. The actuation train 106 b has at least one electrical pole conductor 184 b. The electrical pole conductor 184 b is configured to provide at least one electrical potential for at least one tool piece 92 b of an end effector 90 b of the endoscopic device 16 b. The electrical pole conductor 184 b is designed as an inner conductor. The electrical pole conductor 184 b is formed by an inner cable 112 b of the actuation train 106 b. It is conceivable that the electrical pole conductor can be configured to provide an equal electrical potential for the tool piece and the further tool piece.

The actuation train 106 b has at least one further electrical pole conductor 186 b. The further electrical pole conductor 186 b is configured to provide at least one further electrical potential for a further tool piece 94 b of the end effector 90 b of the endoscopic device 16 b. The electrical pole conductor 184 b has a principal extent. Moreover, the further electrical pole conductor 186 b has a further principal extent. The principal extent of the electrical pole conductor 184 b is greater than a further principal extent of the further electrical pole conductor 186 b. The further electrical pole conductor 186 b is designed separately from the electrical pole conductor 184 b. The further electrical pole conductor 186 b is configured to provide at least one further electrical potential. The further electrical pole conductor 186 b coaxially surrounds the electrical pole conductor 184 b. The further electrical pole conductor 186 b is designed as an outer conductor. The further electrical pole conductor 186 b has a tubular design. The further electrical pole conductor 186 b is formed at least partially from a braid. The actuation train 106 b has an outer cable 188 b. The outer cable 188 b is arranged surrounding the inner cable 112 b. The outer cable 188 b forms the further electrical pole conductor 186 b.

FIG. 8 shows schematically at least one part of the endoscopic device 16 b in a sectional view transverse to the shaft 26 b. The actuation train 106 b has at least one electrical insulator 190 b. The electrical insulator 190 b is formed at least partially from an insulation material. The insulation material has a CTI value of at least 150. In the present case, the insulation material even has a CTI value of more than 600. The insulation material can be PEEK, for example. In the present case, the insulation material is a tetrafluoroethylene-hexafluoropropylene copolymer (FEP) or a perfluoralkoxy polymer (PFA). The plastic can be flexible and/or elastic. The electrical insulator 190 b coaxially surrounds the electrical pole conductor 184 b. The electrical insulator 190 b is arranged between the electrical pole conductor 184 b and the further electrical pole conductor 186 b. The actuation train 106 b has at least one further electrical insulator 192 b. The further electrical insulator 192 b coaxially surrounds the further electrical pole conductor 186 b.

The endoscopic device 16 b has a movement transducer 116 b (cf. FIG. 7). The movement transducer 116 b is configured to mechanically couple the end effector 90 b and the actuation train 106 b. In the present exemplary embodiment, the movement transducer 116 b is additionally configured to electrically couple the end effector 90 b and the actuation train 106 b. The movement transducer 116 b connects at least the electrical pole conductor 184 b to the tool piece 92 b. In the present case, the movement transducer 116 b connects the electrical pole conductor 184 b electrically to the tool piece 92 b. Moreover, the movement transducer 116 b connects the further electrical pole conductor 186 b electrically to the further tool piece 94 b.

A mechanical force path of the movement transducer 116 b, by way of which a force is transmitted from the actuation train 106 b to the tool piece 92 b, and an electrical conduction path of the movement transducer 116 b, by way of which the electrical potential is transmitted to the tool piece 92 b, are identical in the present case. Moreover, a mechanical force path of the movement transducer 116 b, by way of which a force is transmitted from the actuation train 106 b to the further tool piece 94 b, and an electrical conduction path of the movement transducer 116 b, by way of which the further electrical potential is transmitted to the further tool piece 94 b, are identical in the present case.

The movement transducer 116 b is partially electrically conductive. For this purpose, the movement transducer 116 b is made at least partially from a metal. The movement transducer 116 b is formed partially from a further insulation material. The further insulation material has a CTI value of at least 150. In the present case, the further insulation material even has a CTI value of more than 600. The further insulation material can be PEEK, for example In the present case, the further insulation material is a cycloolefin copolymer (COC) and/or polymethyl pentene. Only components of the movement transducer 116 b that are configured to transmit movement from the actuation train 106 b to the tool piece 92 b are at least partially free of insulation material in order to let through the electrical potential. Only components of the movement transducer 116 b that are configured to transmit movement from the actuation train 106 b to the further tool piece 94 b are at least partially free of insulation material in order to let through the further electrical potential.

For electrical connection, a push and/or pull piston 122 b of the movement transducer 116 b has at least one electrical pole conductor extension 194 b. The electrical pole conductor extension 194 b is electrically connected to the electrical pole conductor 184 b of the actuation train 106 b. Moreover, the electrical pole conductor extension 194 b is mechanically connected to the electrical pole conductor 184 b of the actuation train 106 b.

The electrical pole conductor extension 194 b extends partially through an armature 130 b of the push and/or pull piston 122 b. In the region of the armature 130 b, the electrical pole conductor extension 194 b is electrically and/or mechanically connected to a further component of the movement transducer 116 b. Moreover, the electrical pole conductor extension 194 b extends at least partially through a bolt 124 b of the push and/or pull piston 122 b. In the region of the bolt 124 b, the electrical pole conductor extension 194 b is electrically connected to the electrical pole conductor 184 b.

The electrical pole conductor extension 194 b has an electronic pole conductor extension main body 202. The electrical pole conductor extension 194 b has a pole conductor sleeve 198 b. The electrical pole conductor extension 194 b is enclosed in the pole conductor sleeve 198 b. The pole conductor sleeve 198 b is arranged in the region of the bolt 124 b of the push and/or pull piston 122 b. The pole conductor sleeve 198 b is firmly connected to a pole conductor extension main body 202 b of the electrical pole conductor extension 194 b. In the present case, the pole conductor sleeve 198 b is welded to the pole conductor extension main body 202 b.

The electrical pole conductor extension 194 b is designed at least partially as a flat strip. The pole conductor extension main body 202 b is designed as a flat strip. The electrical pole conductor extension 194 b is made at least partially from metal. The pole conductor extension main body 202 b can be sheet metal, for example.

The electrical pole conductor extension 194 b is hook-shaped in a side view. The electrical pole conductor extension 194 b engages at least partially around an additional guide slot 176 b of the push and/or pull piston 122 b. The electrical pole conductor extension 194 b is designed at least partially as a sheet metal component, in particular a laser-cut sheet metal component. The pole conductor extension main body 202 b is a sheet metal component, in particular a laser-cut sheet metal component. Alternatively, the electronic pole conductor extension could be an at least partially generatively produced component. For example, the electrical pole conductor extension could be produced by means of a laser melting and/or laser sintering method.

Moreover, the push and/or pull piston 122 b has at least the further insulation material. The electrical pole conductor extension 194 b is at least partially covered with the further insulation material. In the present case, the electrical pole conductor extension 194 b is even at least largely covered with the further insulation material. In the present case, the further insulation material encapsulates the electrical pole conductor extension 194 b. The electronic pole conductor extension 194 b covered with the further insulation material forms at least partially the push and/or pull piston 122 b.

For further electrical connection, the push and/or pull piston 122 b of the movement transducer 116 b has at least one further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b. The further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b is electrically connected to the further electrical pole conductor 186 b of the actuation train 106 b. Moreover, the further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b is connected mechanically to the further electrical pole conductor 186 b of the actuation train 106 b.

The further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b extends partially through the armature 130 b of the push and/or pull piston 122 b. In the region of the armature 130 b, the further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b is electrically and/or mechanically connected to a further component of the movement transducer 116 b. Moreover, the further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b extends at least partially through the bolt 124 b of the push and/or pull piston 122 b. In the region of the bolt 124 b, the further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b is electrically connected to the further electrical pole conductor 186 b.

The further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b has a further pole conductor extension main body 204 b. The further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b has a further pole conductor sleeve 198 b. The further electrical pole conductor 186 b is enclosed in the further pole conductor sleeve 200 b. The further pole conductor sleeve 200 b is arranged in the region of the bolt 124 b of the push and/or pull piston 122 b. The further pole conductor sleeve 200 b is firmly connected to a further pole conductor extension main body 204 b of the further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b. In the present case, the further pole conductor sleeve 200 b is welded to the further pole conductor extension main body 204 b.

The further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b is designed at least partially as a flat strip. The further pole conductor extension main body 204 b is designed as a flat strip. The further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b is made at least partially from metal. The further pole conductor extension main body 204 b can be sheet metal, for example.

The further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b is designed at least partially as a sheet metal component, in particular a laser-cut sheet metal component. The further pole conductor extension main body 204 b is a sheet metal component, in particular a laser-cut sheet metal component. Alternatively, the further electrical pole conductor extension could be an at least partially generatively produced component. For example, the further electrical pole conductor extension could be produced by means of a laser melting and/or laser sintering method.

Moreover, the push and/or pull piston 122 b has at least one further insulation material. In the present case, the latter is the aforementioned further insulation material. The further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b is at least partially covered with the further insulation material. In the present case, the further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b is even at least largely covered with the further insulation material. In the present case, the further insulation material encapsulates the further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b. The further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b covered with the further insulation material forms at least partially the push and/or pull piston 122 b.

In a side view, the further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b is designed corresponding to the electrical pole conductor extension 194 b. The further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b extends at least substantially parallel to the electrical pole conductor extension 194 b. The electrical pole conductor extension 194 b and the further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b are arranged in the same plane. The plane can be a plane of symmetry of the push and/or pull piston 122 b. The electrical pole conductor extension 194 b engages at least partially around the further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b.

In the present case, the further insulation material jointly encapsulates the electrical pole conductor extension 194 b and the further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b. The electrical pole conductor extension 194 b and the further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b are electrically insulated from each other by the further insulation material. The further insulation material, the electrical pole conductor extension 194 b and the further pole conductor extension 196 b at least largely form the push and/or pull piston 122 b.

The movement transducer 116 b has at least one pivot lever 132 b. The pivot lever 132 b is electrically connected to the push and/or pull piston 122 b. The pivot lever 132 b is electrically connected to the electrical pole conductor extension 194 b. The pivot lever 132 b has a pivot lever main body 134 b. The pivot lever main body 134 b is formed at least partially from metal. The pivot lever main body 134 b is electrically connected to the tool piece 92 b. The pivot lever 132 b has at least one further insulation material. In the present case, the latter is the aforementioned further insulation material. The pivot lever main body 134 b is covered at least partially by the further insulation material. In the present case, the pivot lever main body 134 b is at least largely covered with the further insulation material.

The movement transducer 116 b comprises at least one coupling mechanism 136 b. The coupling mechanism 136 b has at least one coupling element 138 b. The coupling element 138 b is part of the push and/or pull piston 122 b. The coupling element 138 b is electrically conductive. The coupling element 138 b is made at least partially from metal. The coupling element 138 b is at least partially free from the further insulation material which surrounds the push and/or pull piston 122 b. Moreover, the coupling element 138 b is mechanically operatively connected to the electrical pole conductor extension 194 b. The coupling element 138 b is electrically operatively connected to the electrical pole conductor extension 194 b. For example, the coupling element 138 b can be welded to the electrical pole conductor extension 194 b.

The coupling mechanism 136 b has at least one corresponding coupling element 140 b. The corresponding coupling element 140 b is part of a pivot lever 132 b of the movement transducer 116 b. The corresponding coupling element 140 b is connected to a pivot lever main body 134 b of the pivot lever 132 b. The corresponding coupling element 140 b is at least partially free from the further insulation material. The coupling element 138 b and the corresponding coupling element 140 b are electrically operatively connected to each other. The surfaces of the coupling element and of the corresponding coupling element 140 b that bear on each other, and that are advantageously free from the further insulation material, form an electrical sliding contact.

The movement transducer 116 b has at least one further pivot lever 150 b (cf. FIG. 9). The further pivot lever 150 b is electrically connected to the push and/or pull piston 122 b. The further pivot lever 150 b is electrically connected to the further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b. The further pivot lever 150 b has a further pivot lever main body 152 b. The further pivot lever main body 152 b is formed at least partially from metal. The further pivot lever main body 152 b is electrically connected to the tool piece 92 b. The further pivot lever 150 b has at least one further insulation material. In the present case, the latter is the aforementioned further insulation material. The further pivot lever main body 152 b is covered at least partially by the further insulation material. In the present case, the further pivot lever main body 152 b is at least largely covered with the further insulation material.

The coupling mechanism 136 b has at least one further coupling element 156 b. The further coupling element 156 b is part of the push and/or pull piston 122 b. The further coupling element 156 b is electrically conductive. The further coupling element 156 b is formed at least partially from metal. The further coupling element 156 b of the push and/or pull piston 122 b is at least partially free from the further insulation material. The further coupling element 156 b is electrically operatively connected to the further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b. Moreover, the further coupling element 156 b is mechanically operatively connected to the further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b. For example, the further coupling element 156 b is welded to the further electrical pole conductor extension 196 b.

The coupling mechanism 136 b has at least one further corresponding coupling element 158 b. The corresponding coupling element 158 b is part of the further pivot lever 150 b. The further corresponding coupling element 158 b is connected to a further pivot lever main body 152 b of the further pivot lever 150 b. The further corresponding coupling element 158 b is at least partially free from the further insulation material. The further coupling element 156 b and the further corresponding coupling element 158 b are electrically operatively connected to each other. Surfaces of the further coupling element 156 b and of the further corresponding coupling element 158 b that bear on each other, and that are advantageously free from the further insulation material, form an electrical sliding contact.

Moreover, the end effector 90 b has an end-effector head 96 b. The end-effector head 96 b is formed at least partially from a further insulation material, for example the aforementioned further insulation material. The end-effector head 96 b has an end-effector main body 206 b. In the present case, the end-effector main body 206 b is formed at least partially from a metal. The end-effector main body 206 b is at least largely covered with the further insulation material. In the present case, the end-effector main body 206 b is covered completely with the further insulation material.

Components of the endoscopic device 16 b that are covered with the further insulation material are covered seamlessly with the latter. For this purpose, main bodies of these components are encapsulated by injection with the further insulation material, for example the end-effector head, the end-effector fork, the push and/or pull piston, the pivot lever, the further pivot lever or the like. The further insulation material conforms snugly to further components, for example the tool piece, such that seams in which contamination could accumulate can advantageously be avoided.

FIG. 10 shows schematically at least one part of an alternative endoscopic device 16 c in a sectional view along a shaft 26 c of the endoscopic device 16 c, according to the principles of the present disclosure in a sectional view along a shaft 26 c of the endoscopic device 16 c in a straight position. Moreover, FIG. 11 shows schematically at least one part of the endoscopic device 16 c in a sectional view along the shaft 26 c of the endoscopic device 16 c in a deflection position. The present exemplary embodiment of the endoscopic device 16 c differs from the preceding one essentially in terms of a deflection mechanism 46 c of the endoscopic device 16 c.

The deflection mechanism 46 c has at least one first connection member 48 c. In the present case, the deflection mechanism 46 c has a plurality of first connection members. Moreover, the deflection mechanism 46 c has at least one second connection member 50 c. In the present case, the deflection mechanism 46 c has a plurality of second connection members.

FIG. 10 shows the deflection mechanism 46 c in a straight position. The first connection member 48 c and the second connection member 50 c are arranged relative to each other in a straight position. In the straight position, a first axis of rotational symmetry 52 c of the first connection member 48 c and a second axis of rotational symmetry 54 c of the second connection member 50 c are oriented at least substantially parallel to each other.

The first connection member 48 c has a first geometric midpoint 64 c. Moreover, the second connection member 50 c has a second geometric midpoint 66 c. In the straight position, the first geometric midpoint 64 c and the second geometric midpoint 66 c are arranged offset relative to each other.

When the first connection member 48 c and the second connection member 50 c are arranged in the straight position, a straight-position spacing 68 c exists between the first connection member 48 c and second connection member 50 c. In the straight position, the straight-position spacing 68 c is defined by a shortest connection between the first geometric midpoint 64 c and second geometric midpoint 66 c.

FIG. 11 shows the deflection mechanism 46 c in a deflection position. The first connection member 48 c and the second connection member 50 c are arranged relative to each other in a deflection position. In the deflection position, the first axis of rotational symmetry 52 c of the first connection member 48 c and the second axis of rotational symmetry 54 c of the second connection member 50 c are arranged at an angle to each other. In the deflection position, an angle between the first axis of rotational symmetry 52 c and the second axis of rotational symmetry 54 c is at least 10°. In the deflection position, the first geometric midpoint 64 c and the second geometric midpoint 66 c are arranged offset relative to each other.

When the first connection member 48 c and the second connection member 50 c are arranged in the deflection position, a deflection spacing 70 c exists between the first connection member 48 c and second connection member 50 c. In the deflection position, the deflection spacing 70 c is defined by a shortest connection between the first geometric midpoint 64 c and second geometric midpoint 66 c. The deflection-position spacing 70 c is greater than the straight-position spacing 68 c.

In a deflection of the first connection member 48 c and of the second connection member 50 c relative to each other, as may occur for example during a transfer of the connection members from the straight position to the deflection position, they are configured such that their geometric midpoints 64 c, 66 c increases by at least 0.3 μm per degree of a deflection of these from the straight position. In the deflection position, there is a lengthening of the deflection mechanism 46 c by comparison with the straight position. When the connection members 48 c, 50 c are pretensioned, for example by a control train of the endoscopic device 16 c, the pretensioning in the deflection position increases compared to a pretensioning that acts on the connection members in the straight position. A restoring action can be achieved, as a result of which the connection members return automatically to a straight position.

In the present case, the deflection mechanism 46 c has three first connection members 48 c. Moreover, the deflection mechanism 46 c has four second connection members 50 c. By virtue of the arrangement of the plurality of first connection members and of the plurality of second connection members, a total of six interacting combinations of a first connection member and a second connection member are thus obtained.

The first connection member 48 c has at least one outer contour 72 c. The outer contour 72 c is directed outward. The design of the outer contour 72 c differs from concave. In the present case, the outer contour 72 c is of convex design. The outer contour 72 c describes an arc of a circle 76 c. The outer contour 72 c has at least partially a shape of a circle involute. Alternatively or in addition, the outer contour could accordingly have at least in part a shape of an arc of a circle, a cycloid, a paraboloid and/or an ellipsoid.

There exists a diameter 74 c of a smallest conceivable arc of a circle 76 c still just completely enclosing the outer contour 72 c of the first connection member 48 c. This diameter 74 c is greater than a maximum connection member width 208 c of the first connection member 48 c. The connection member width 208 c is measured at least substantially perpendicular to the direction of longitudinal extent 38 c of a shaft 26 c of the endoscopic device 16 c.

The second connection member 50 c has at least one inner contour 78 c. The inner contour 78 c is directed inward. The design of the inner contour 78 c differs from concave. Moreover, in the present case, the inner contour 78 c is straight. The inner contour 78 c is at least partially different from an arc of a circle 76 c. Alternatively or in addition, the inner contour could accordingly have at least in part a shape of an arc of a circle, a circle involute, a cycloid, a paraboloid and/or an ellipsoid.

The outer contour 72 c and the inner contour 78 c lie opposite each other. The inner contour 78 c of the second connection member 50 c is configured for interaction with the outer contour 72 c of the first connection member 48 c, and vice versa. The outer contour 72 c and the inner contour 78 c bear at most partially on each other.

FIG. 12 shows a schematic perspective view of at least one part of a further exemplary embodiment of a further endoscopic device 16 d in an assembly state, according to the principles of the present disclosure. Moreover, FIGS. 13 and 14 show further assembly states of the endoscopic device 16 d. The present exemplary embodiment of the endoscopic device 16 d differs from the preceding one essentially in terms of a deflection mechanism 46 d of the endoscopic device 16 d.

The deflection mechanism 46 d has at least one control train 80 d. The control train 80 d is connected to an end portion 28 d of the shaft 26 d. A part of the control train 80 d is arranged forming a loop-back 84 d in the region of the end portion 28 d of the shaft 26 d. The loop-back 84 d has a loop-back radius 212 d. The loop-back radius 212 d is greater than the diameter 74 d of the control train 80 d. The loop-back radius 212 d is at least twice as great as the diameter 74 d of the control train 80 d.

The end portion 28 d of the shaft 26 d has at least one loop-back guide 210 d. The control train 80 d is arranged at least partially in the loop-back guide 210 d. A portion of the control train 80 d forming the loop-back 84 d is arranged in the loop-back guide 210 d. In a side view, the loop-back guide 210 d has a keyhole-shaped contour. Before the loop-back 84 d, a loop-back guide 210 d guides the control train 80 d in the direction of the end portion 28 d of the shaft 26 d. After the loop-back 84 d, the loop-back guide 210 d guides the control train 80 d back toward the end portion 28 d of the shaft 26 d.

The loop-back guide 210 d guides the control train 80 d at least in part substantially parallel to an axis of principal extent 120 d of the shaft 26 d. There exists a smallest spacing between a portion guided to the loop-back 84 d and a portion of the control train 80 d guided back from the loop-back 84 d. This smallest spacing is smaller than twice the loop-back radius 212 d of the loop-back 84 d or the loop-back guide 210 d.

The loop-back guide 210 d has an angle of circumferential extent 214 d. The angle of circumferential extent 214 d is an angle that describes the radial angle part of the loop-back 84 d. The angle of circumferential extent 214 d measures more than 180°. In the present case, the angle of circumferential extent 214 d measures at least 210°. Moreover, the angle of circumferential extent 214 d has an angle of less than 360°. In the present case, the angle of circumferential extent 214 d is at most 340°.

For radial insertion of the control train 80 d into the loop-back guide 210 d, the latter is radially opened to the outside. Alternatively, the loop-back guide could be opened to the inside. It is also conceivable that the loop-back guide can be covered radially outwardly by means of a covering. For this purpose, a covering could be able to be coupled to an end portion of a shaft. The covering at least partially covers an end portion 28 d of the shaft 26 d, in order to close the loop-back guide 210 d radially to the outside.

Moreover, the end portion 28 d has a plurality of loop-back guides 210 d, which are arranged offset relative to one another along the circumference of the shaft 26 d. Of the plurality of loop-back guides, for the sake of clarity only the loop-back guide 210 d is provided with a reference sign. A plurality of control trains are arranged in the plurality of loop-back guides. Here, one control train 80 d is arranged in each one of the plurality of loop-back guides.

FIG. 13 shows a schematic perspective view of at least one part of an additional endoscopic device 16 e in an assembly state, according to the principles of the present disclosure. FIG. 14 shows a schematic perspective view of the part of the endoscopic device 16 e in an additional assembly state. FIG. 15 moreover shows a schematic perspective view of at least the part of the further endoscopic device 16 e in a mounted state. The present exemplary embodiment of the further endoscopic device 16 e differs from the preceding ones essentially in terms of a deflection mechanism 46 e of the endoscopic device 16 e.

The deflection mechanism 46 e has at least one first connection member 48 e. Moreover, the deflection mechanism 46 e has at least one second connection member 50 e.

The second connection member 50 e has at least one passageway 82 e. Moreover, the second connection member 50 e has at least one radial opening 216 e. The radial opening 216 e is connected to the passageway 82 e. A control train 80 e is insertable into the passageway 82 e via the radial opening 216 e.

The second connection member 50 e has at least one connection member main body 218 e. The connection member main body 218 e has the radial opening 216 e. Moreover, the connection member main body 218 e has the passageway 82 e. The connection member main body 218 e has a connection recess 220 e. The connection recess 220 e extends at least partially radially. In the present case, the connection recess 220 e extends completely radially. The connection recess 220 e of the connection member main body 218 e connects the passageway 82 e and the radial opening 216 e to each other.

The second connection member 50 e has at least one closure body 222 e. The closure body 222 e is configured to close the radial opening 216 e at least in an inserted state of the control train 80 e. In the present case, the closure body 222 e is designed as a clamping ring. The closure body 222 e is connectable to the connection member main body 218 e. In the present case, the closure body 222 e is connectable to the connection member main body 218 e by force-fit and/or form-fit engagement. Moreover, the closure body 222 e is cohesively bonded or welded to the connection member main body 218 e.

FIG. 16 shows a schematic plan view of at least one part of an alternative endoscopic device 16 f according to the principles of the present disclosure. The present exemplary embodiment of the endoscopic device 16 f differs from the preceding one essentially in terms of a configuration of a deflection mechanism 46 f of the endoscopic device 16 f.

A second connection member 50 f of the deflection mechanism 46 f has at least one connection member main body 218 f. The connection member main body 218 f has at least one passageway 82 f. Moreover, the connection member main body 218 f has at least one radial opening 216 f. Moreover, the connection member main body 218 f has a connection recess 220 f. The connection recess 220 f connects the radial opening 216 f to the passageway 82 f.

In the present case, the connection recess 220 f extends radially in part. The connection recess 220 f describes a curved path. In the present case, the radially extending recess describes a hook-shaped curved path. The connection recess 220 f has the shape of a curved path. The curved path has a curved-path angle of more than 90°. In the present case, the curved path has a curved-path angle of more than 150°. Moreover, the curved-path angle is at most 180°. Advantageously, it is possible to dispense here with a closure body according to the preceding exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 17 shows a schematic perspective view of at least one part of an alternative endoscopic device 16 g according to the principles of the present disclosure. The present exemplary embodiment differs from the preceding ones essentially in terms of a configuration of a deflection mechanism 46 g of the endoscopic device 16 g.

A second connection member 50 g of the deflection mechanism 46 g has at least one connection member main body 218 g. The connection member main body 218 g has at least one passageway 82 g. Moreover, the connection member main body 218 g has at least one radial opening 216 g. Moreover, the connection member main body 218 g has a connection recess 220 g. The connection recess 220 g connects the radial opening 216 g to the guide hole.

In the present case, the radial opening 216 g extends at an angle to an axis of rotational symmetry of the second connection member. Moreover, the radial opening 216 g can have a profile like a curved path. For example, in such a profile, a continuous profile can correspond approximately to a cosine wave.

FIG. 18 shows a schematic perspective view of at least one part of an alternative endoscopic device 16 h in an assembly state according to the principle of the present disclosure. FIG. 19 shows a schematic perspective view of the part of the endoscopic device 16 h in a mounted state. Moreover, FIG. 20 shows a schematic perspective view of the part of the endoscopic device 16 h in an assembly state. Moreover, FIG. 21 shows a schematic perspective view of the part of the endoscopic device 16 h in a further assembly state. FIG. 22 shows a schematic perspective view of at least the part of the endoscopic device 16 h in a mounted state. The present exemplary embodiment of the endoscopic device 16 h differs from the preceding ones essentially in terms of a configuration of a deflection mechanism 46 h of the endoscopic device 16 h.

The deflection mechanism 46 h has a second connection member 50 h. The connection member 50 h comprises at least one connection member main body 218 h. The connection member main body 218 h has at least one passageway 82 h. Moreover, the connection member main body 218 h has a radial opening 216 h. Moreover, the connection member main body 218 comprises a connection recess 220 h. The connection recess 220 h connects the radial opening 216 h to the passageway 82 h.

A second connection member has at least one further connection member main body 224 h. The further connection member main body 224 h has at least one further passageway 226 h. In the present case, the connection member main body 218 h and the further connection member main body 224 h are at least substantially identical to each other. Moreover, the further connection member main body 224 h has a further radial opening 228 h. Moreover, the further connection member main body 224 h has a further connection recess 230 h. The further connection recess 230 h connects the further radial opening 228 h to the further passageway 226 h.

The connection member main body 218 h and the further connection member main body 224 h can be coupled to each other. The connection member main body 218 h and the further connection member main body 224 h are connectable to each other by force-fit and/or form-fit engagement. In a position in which a radial opening 216 h of the connection member main body 218 h and the further radial opening 228 h of the further connection member main body 224 h are congruent with each other, the connection member main body 218 h and the further connection member main body 224 h are separated from each other.

In a further position, in which the passageway 82 h of the connection member main body 218 h and the further passageway 226 h of the further connection member main body 224 h are congruent with each other, the connection member main body 218 h and the further connection member main body 224 h are connectable to each other. A control train 80 e of the deflection mechanism 46 h keeps the connection member main body 218 h and the further connection member main body 224 h pretensioned in a mounted state, such that these are pressed together. Alternatively or in addition, the connection member main bodies could be connectable by means of a quick connector 248 h, for example a bayonet closure, a screw closure or the like.

FIG. 23 shows a schematic side view of at least one part of an alternative endoscopic device 16 i in a straight position according to the principles of the present disclosure. Moreover, FIG. 24 shows schematically the part of the endoscopic device 16 i from FIG. 23 in a sectional view along a shaft 26 i of the endoscopic device 16 i in the straight position. FIG. 25 shows a schematic side view of the part of the endoscopic device 16 i in a deflection position. FIG. 26 shows schematically the part of the endoscopic device 16 i in a sectional view along the shaft 26 i of the endoscopic device 16 i in the deflection position. The present exemplary embodiment of the endoscopic device 16 i differs from the preceding one essentially in terms of a deflection mechanism 46 i of the endoscopic device 16 i.

The deflection mechanism 46 i has at least one first connection member 48 i. In the present case, the deflection mechanism 46 i has a plurality of first connection members. Moreover, the deflection mechanism 46 i has at least one second connection member 50 i. In the present case, the deflection mechanism 46 i has a plurality of second connection members.

The first connection member 48 i is formed at least partially from a first material 232 i. The first material 232 i is assigned to the substance group of plastics. In the present case, the first material 232 i is an elastomer. The first material 232 i has a first elasticity.

The second connection member 50 i is formed at least partially from a second material 234 i. The second material 234 i is assigned to the substance group of plastics. The second material 234 i is a thermoplastic. Alternatively, the second material could also be a metal, a ceramic or the like.

The second material 234 i has a second elasticity. The second elasticity of the second material 234 i differs from the first elasticity of the first material 232 i. In the present case, an elasticity of the first material 232 i is greater than an elasticity of the second material 234 i.

The second connection member 50 i is arranged at least partially coaxially surrounding the first connection member 48 i. The first connection member 48 i has a tubular design. The second connection member 50 i has a ring-like design.

The first connection member 48 i and the second connection member 50 i are connected to each other at least by form-fit engagement. The first connection member 48 i and the second connection member 50 i engage at least partially in each other in an engagement region 236 i. The first connection member 48 i has a first profiling 238 i for connecting it to the second connection member 50 i. In the present case, the profiling 238 i has the form of an undulation. The second connection member 50 i has a second profiling 240 i for connecting it to the first connection member 48 i. The second profiling 240 i is designed corresponding to the first profiling 238 i. For an at least form-fit connection of the first connection member 48 i and of the second connection member 50 i, the first profiling 238 i and the second profiling 240 i engage in each other and form the engagement region 236 i.

Moreover, the first connection member 48 i and the second connection member 50 i are connected to each other by at least cohesive bonding. For example, the first connection member 48 i and the second connection member 50 i could be adhesively fixed to each other. In the present case, however, the first connection member 48 i and the second connection member 50 i are injected onto each other. In this way, at least the first connection member 48 i and the second connection member 50 i at least partially form a multi-component injection molded assembly 242 i of the endoscopic device 16 i.

In the present case, the plurality of first connection members are formed integrally with one another. The plurality of first connection members together form a hose. The principal extent of the hose corresponds at least substantially to a principal extent of a deflection mechanism 46 i of the endoscopic device 16 i. The plurality of second connection members are then in each case arranged offset relative to each other about the hose. Thus, the plurality of first connection members and the plurality of second connection members together form the multi-component injection molded assembly 242 i.

FIG. 27 shows a schematic perspective view of at least one part of a further endoscopic device 16 j according to the principles of the present disclosure. The present exemplary embodiment of the endoscopic device 16 j differs from the preceding ones essentially in terms of a modular configuration of the endoscopic device 16 j.

The endoscopic device 16 j has at least one end-effector module 244 j. The end-effector module 244 j comprises at least one end effector 90 j. Moreover, the end-effector module 244 j has an actuation train 106 j. Moreover, the end-effector module 244 j has a movement transducer 116 j. The end-effector module 244 j is designed as a re-usable module. For example, the end-effector module 244 j is configured so as to be autoclavable, such that it can be cleaned after an intervention and thus used a number of times. Alternatively, the end-effector module could be designed as a disposable module. For example, the end-effector module could be designed so as not to be autoclavable. It would be conceivable that, if an attempt is made to re-use it, the disposable module deliberately presents a defect, which impedes its function or detects and indicates repeat use.

The endoscopic device 16 j moreover comprises at least one shaft module 246 j. The shaft module 246 j has at least the shaft 26 j. Moreover, the shaft module 246 j has a deflection mechanism 46 j. The shaft module 246 j is designed as a disposable module. For example, the shaft module 246 j could be designed so as not to be autoclavable. It would be conceivable that, if an attempt is made to re-use it, the disposable module deliberately presents a defect, which impedes its function or detects and indicates repeat use. Alternatively, the shaft module could be designed as a re-usable module. For example, the shaft module is configured to be autoclavable, such that it can be cleaned after an intervention and can thus be used a number of times. Moreover, the shaft module 246 j can have all the components of the endoscopic device 16 j that are not already assigned to the end-effector module 244 j.

The end-effector module 244 j and the shaft module 246 j are exchangeably connectable to each other. The endoscopic device 16 j comprises at least one quick connector 248 j. In the present case, the quick connector 248 j is designed as a screw connector. Alternatively, the quick connector could also be a snap-fit connection, a clamping connection, a bayonet connection or the like.

The quick connector 248 j has a quick-connector piece 250 j. Moreover, the quick connector 248 j has a quick-connector piece 252 j corresponding to the quick-connector piece 250 j. In the present case, the quick-connector piece 250 j is a threaded piece. The quick-connector piece 250 j has an inner thread. In the present case, the corresponding quick-connector piece 252 j is a corresponding threaded piece. The corresponding quick-connector piece 252 j has an outer thread.

The quick connector 248 j is at least partially connected integrally to the end effector 90 j. An end-effector head 96 j of the end effector 90 j is formed integrally with the quick connector 248 j. In the present case, the end portion 28 j of the shaft 26 j has the corresponding quick-connector piece 252 j. Moreover, the quick connector 248 j is at least partially formed by an end-effector head 96 j of the end effector 90 j. In the present case, the end-effector head 96 j has the corresponding quick-connector piece 252 j.

In order to achieve exchangeability and thus variability of use, the endoscopic device 16 j has at least one or more further end-effector modules. Moreover, the endoscopic device 16 j can have at least one or more further shaft modules 246 j.

10 surgical system 12 surgical robot 14 controller 16 endoscopic device 18 robot arm 20 endoscopic instrument 22 endoscope 26 shaft 28 end portion 30 further end portion 32 middle portion 34 main framework 36 shaft jacket 38 direction of longitudinal extent 40 longitudinal extent 42 deflectable portion 44 plane 46 deflection mechanism 48 first connection member 50 second connection member 52 first axis of rotational symmetry 54 second axis of rotational symmetry 56 cuff 58 further cuff 60 joint head 62 joint socket 64 first geometric midpoint 66 second geometric midpoint 68 straight-position spacing 70 deflection-position spacing 72 outer contour 74 diameter 76 arc of a circle 78 inner contour 80 control train 82 passageway 84 loop-back 86 train receptacle 88 passageway 90 end effector 92 tool piece 94 further tool piece 96 end-effector head 98 end-effector fork 100 end-effector limb 102 further end-effector limb 104 end-effector bushing 106 actuation train 108 flexible portion 110 inflexible portion 112 inner cable 114 reinforcement 116 movement transducer 118 pivot axis 120 axis of principal extent 122 push and/or pull piston 124 bolt 126 piston guide 128 actuation train receptacle 130 armature 132 pivot lever 134 pivot lever main body 136 coupling mechanism 138 coupling element 140 corresponding coupling element 142 rotary bearing 144 bearing element 146 corresponding bearing element 148 rotary axis 150 further pivot lever 152 further pivot lever main body 154 further coupling mechanism 156 further coupling element 158 further corresponding coupling element 160 further pivot axis 162 further rotary bearing 164 further bearing element 166 further corresponding bearing element 168 further rotary axis 170 guide bearing 172 slotted guide 174 further slotted guide 176 additional slotted guide 178 guide pin 180 pin receptacle 182 further pin receptacle 184 electrical pole conductor 186 further electrical pole conductor 188 outer cable 190 electrical insulator 192 further electrical insulator 194 electrical pole conductor extension 196 further electrical pole conductor extension 198 pole conductor sleeve 200 further pole conductor sleeve 202 pole conductor extension main body 204 further pole conductor extension main body 206 end-effector main body 208 connection member width 210 loop-back guide 212 loop-back radius 214 angle of circumferential extent 216 radial opening 218 connection member main body 220 connection recess 222 closure body 224 further connection member main body 226 further passageway 228 further radial opening 230 further connection recess 232 first material 234 second material 236 engagement region 238 first profiling 240 second profiling 242 multi-component injection molded assembly 244 end-effector module 246 shaft module 248 quick connector 250 quick-connector piece 252 corresponding quick-connector piece 

We claim:
 1. An endoscopic device An endoscopic device having at least one shaft, which has at least one portion deflectable in at least one plane, and having at least one deflection mechanism, which is configured to deflect the deflectable portion and comprises, arranged in series, at least one first connection member and at least one second connection member interacting for a deflection with the first connection member, wherein, when the first connection member and the second connection member are arranged in a straight position relative to each other, a straight-position spacing exists which is defined by a shortest connection between a geometric midpoint of the first connection member and a geometric midpoint of the second connection member, and, when the first connection member and the second connection member are arranged in a deflection position relative to each other, a deflection-position spacing exists which is defined by a shortest connection between a geometric midpoint of the first connection member and a geometric midpoint of the second connection member, and the deflection-position spacing of the connection members in the deflection position is greater than the straight-position spacing of the connection members in the straight position.
 2. The endoscopic device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a spacing between the geometric midpoints of the connection members increases at least by 0.3 μm per degree of a deflection of these from the straight position.
 3. The endoscopic device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first connection member has at least one outer contour and the second connection member has at least one inner contour interacting with the outer contour of the first connection member, wherein the inner contour and/or the outer contour are/is other than concave.
 4. The endoscopic device as claimed in claim 3, wherein the outer contour and/or the inner contour are convex.
 5. The endoscopic device as claimed in claim 3, wherein the outer contour and the inner contour bear at most in part on each other.
 6. The endoscopic device as claimed in claim 3, wherein a diameter of a smallest arc of a circle still completely enclosing the outer contour is greater than a connection member width of the first connection member measured perpendicularly to a principal extent of the shaft.
 7. The endoscopic device as claimed in claim 3, wherein the outer contour and/or the inner contour are/is at least in part different from an arc of a circle.
 8. The endoscopic device as claimed in claim 3, wherein the outer contour and/or the inner contour are/is designed corresponding at least in part to a shape of an arc of a circle, a circle involute, a cycloid, a paraboloid and/or an ellipsoid.
 9. The endoscopic device as claimed in claim 1, wherein it comprises at least one flexurally slack control train on which the connection members are arranged in rows and which, in the straight position of the connection members, keeps the connection members pretensioned.
 10. The endoscopic device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the deflection mechanism has a number of first connection members and a number of second connection members, wherein a difference between the number of the first connection members and the number of the second connection members, is different than zero.
 11. An endoscope and/or endoscopic instrument having an endoscopic device as claimed in claim
 1. 12. A surgical system having at least one endoscopic device as claimed in claim 1 and having at least one surgical robot.
 13. A method for operating and/or for producing an endoscopic device as claimed in claim
 1. 